Senator Bernie Sanders gave an impassioned speech about the sad state of American politics. He challenged the Democratic Party to fight not just the Republican Party leadership but their own party establishment as well. Sanders, who has long been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, articulated his concerns regarding economic inequality and the urgent need for transformative change in society.
This campaign Sanders started in 1981 when he became mayor of Burlington, Vermont, the first independent socialist to hold that position. Since then, he has stood by that promise with a proven and unwavering record of fighting for the working class. Notable for his serious, progressive runs for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020. In the face of those existential crises, throughout those campaigns, he built deep and wide support from grassroots movements fighting for racial and economic justice.
Central to Sanders’ message is the horrible truth that nearly 60% of Americans are one paycheck away from disaster. He drew important connections between this rising economic insecurity and a political system that he argued has all but been bought out by corporate greed. There is a war between classes. This war is being waged by the people on top,” Sanders claimed. Like many others he feels we need to a broad realignment of priorities really to put a dent in this problem. This includes good jobs in the fossil fuel phase out, housing investments that guarantee homes for low-income families.
Sanders had some sharp words for the Democratic establishment, which he said rebuffed his efforts during recent election cycles. He argued that even with four years to organize, the party establishment came together overnight in some ways, barring other potential candidates when they united around Joe Biden. “One of the frightening aspects of what’s going on is the degree to which the establishment-type folks have caved in, and so quickly,” he said. Yet, this sentiment is born from his exasperation with the party structure that stifles and silences varied perspectives.
As he looks toward the future, Sanders expressed his desire to support Kamala Harris, who has emerged as a significant figure within the party. He is just as intently devoted to advancing the progressive cause. So does he intend to work with other powerful Visionary leaders, such as Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. He described her as “one of the most articulate and charismatic people,” highlighting the importance of young leaders in shaping a more equitable future.
In painting the current political picture, Sanders reminded all of us of the deepening peril of accelerating authoritarianism. He remarked, “It doesn’t matter who it is they have. There’s no lack of well-paid, right-wing consultants and intellectuals who can move this country to an oligarchic authoritarian society.” This point of view catches the kernels of his meta upon meta understanding that the struggle for Democracy goes beyond Democratic vs Republican—it’s a collective pursuit.
Of course, Sanders looked back on personal experiences that helped shape his worldview. Eli, his father, came to the United States in 1921. He had to leave behind much of his close family members who were still living in Poland where they were persecuted during World War II. I believe that this family history is part of what fuels Sanders’ advocacy for immigrant rights and social justice. He urgently remembered the tragic experiences of people living under extrajudicial detentions and deportations. He underscored how systemic failures lead to pain and hardship for the vast majority of innocent lives.
“If you say, ‘Do you really think it’s a good idea to cut Medicaid and give tax breaks to billionaires? Do you really think that climate change is a hoax?’” – Bernie Sanders
Even more importantly, Sanders railed against the political intimidation directed at elected leaders, especially when it comes to their votes on life and death issues. To explain this conundrum, he painted a very real picture of the consequences of crossing rich guys—like potential backlash from future funders such as Elon Musk. But if I stand up and vote ‘no’ then the next day, Elon Musk would be like, ‘Well, fine, you’re going to be primaried,’ and Trump will endorse your opponent. I am going to spend an unlimited amount of money to defeat your opponent. Good luck out there,” he said.
His demeanor during all of these conversations was a clear signal that there is an imperative here. As ambitious as his proposals are, Sanders fundamentally believes that the transformative change should have already happened by now. He highlighted pressing issues such as military spending and societal inequities, stating, “Wars and excessive military budgets are not good. Racism, sexism, homophobia and xenophobia are not good.”
As Sanders continues his advocacy for progressive change, he remains resolute against forming a new political party with Ocasio-Cortez, choosing instead to work within the Democratic framework to drive reform.