I agree. I believe the term “rugged individualism” is a misnomer for something more captured by a term like “decentralized and voluntary community hubs” (I’m not tied to that language but something along those lines seems a better fit).

The sovereignty I seek is one free of top down control, with actual free markets without oligarchy and monopoly, with free association and cooperation.

Mahmdani’s language appeals to people, unfortunately, because we fail to communicate that you do not have to seek sovereignty as a lone wolf. But his language and intentions are not what I would view as something to aspire to.