I tried to run as well... Didn't have any progressive groups around, but the state Dem party doesn't help anyone except top of the ticket. They didn't mind asking me to drop off flyers for their candidates though.

I've also tried to organize a union 3 times in 3 different jobs, and the problem there is just everyone not wanting to do anything extra if it's in any way work related... Even if it's to make their lives better... But I do get that the reason for that is mostly that they're already overworked and underpaid, so they don't feel like they have the time or energy.