During a recent interview on CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) shared his thoughts on the shifting landscape of the Democratic presidential race. He criticized the media’s role in pushing President Joe Biden out of the race and held off on immediately endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
Sanders, who had previously backed Biden, expressed concerns about the media’s influence on the President’s decision. His decision not to quickly endorse Harris differs from the widespread support she has garnered within the Democratic Party.
“Vice President Harris has received endorsements from 41 Democratic senators, 186 Democratic representatives, and 23 Democratic governors,” Cooper mentioned during the interview. Despite this, Sanders indicated that he needs more time before giving a formal endorsement.
When asked about what would prompt him to endorse the Vice President, Sanders stressed the upcoming campaign’s importance, highlighting critical issues like climate change and economic rights. “It’s crucial that we ensure the Vice President’s election,” he emphasized.
The senator mentioned having a private conversation with Harris but chose not to disclose the details. Instead, he focused on broader issues he expects the campaign to tackle. “I want to ensure her campaign recognizes that many in this country feel overlooked and disrespected when they look to Washington DC,” Sanders explained. “People feel misunderstood about their everyday struggles.”
Sanders pointed out the disparities in American society, underscoring that “the life expectancy of working-class individuals is 10 years lower than that of the wealthy.” He emphasized the need for a government that prioritizes working families over corporate interests.
While expressing confidence in eventually endorsing Harris, Sanders made it clear that he wants to verify the campaign’s alignment with his vision for addressing working families’ needs. “I want to ensure that the Vice President, as I believe she will, advocates strongly for an agenda that addresses the long-neglected requirements of working families,” he stated.
In wrapping up the interview, Sanders suggested that if Harris champions a robust agenda addressing the needs of working families, “she will emerge victorious by a significant margin.”