About Progressive Conjecture

Who writes this?

Eric Hensal is a veteran progressive communications, political, and policy strategist. Over 20 years, he has developed extensive experience with non-profits ranging from environmental groups to labor unions, state and local governments, and political candidates.

Eric's strength is finding unexpected creative means to bring important messages to government and grassroots audiences.

The Book

Eric is the author of A Progressive Art of War, which applies Sun Tzu's ancient strategic wisdom to modern progressive politics and social movements.

"Substitute the word 'politics' for 'war.' We fight over words and ideas seeking to shape public perception. In democracies, we wage campaigns to move voters and government officials to act."

The book speaks to issues such as solidarity, tactics, resources, strategy, and risk — insights that apply to elections and advocacy campaigns happening every day. This is not a scholarly discussion of Sun Tzu, nor a how-to manual. It's a sharing of how his work frames the reader's understanding of campaigns.

Key insight: "You lose because of you. You win because of what they don't do."

Notable Work

Murray Hill Inc. — In the wake of Citizens United, Eric created a satirical campaign in which a corporation "ran for Congress" to highlight the absurdity of corporate personhood. The campaign video earned 250,000+ YouTube views and 15,000+ Facebook engagements, generating national media coverage.

"Eric was a very creative individual. I enjoyed associating with him and his unique idea in the wake of Citizens United of having his company run for office to make a point about corporate personhood. His efforts were helpful, creative, and interesting for the debate." — Lisa Gilbert, Co-President, Public Citizen

Credentials

• Master of Public Administration (MPA) with emphasis on public policy
• President, Maryland Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration
• Owner, Progressive Way LLC — strategic consulting for progressive organizations and candidates (20+ years)

What you get here

Progressive Conjecture delivers strategic analysis of progressive campaigns, movements, and political change. These essays take problems apart to see how they work — examining power, protest, and political strategy through an enduring framework of taking nothing for granted.

A Progressive Art of War
Bluesky
Mastodon
LinkedIn
Progressive Way