I know Bernie Sanders will never win a presidential election. In fact, I'm quite certain that I'll never even get the opportunity to vote for him in the Wisconsin primary, but I'm going to donate money to his campaign nonetheless, because I think every day that he's able to stay in the race provides the opportunity for high-level discussion of important issues that get ignored far too often.
20
It is far more healthy for the Democratic Party than just having a coronation. Hope more candidates will join the fray.
8
Great.
So now Rand doesn't have to be the only agent of influence for Russia who's running for President.
So now Rand doesn't have to be the only agent of influence for Russia who's running for President.
Just another career politician- Bernie has served both Houses since 1991. At 73 he's no spring chicken. I can't understand why people who have served more than 20 years in Congress, can't find the simple humility to bow out and retire [on our taxpayer dime no less] with whatever dignity they have left. We need to implement mandatory term limits in both Houses, and stop relying on "grandpa and grandma" to run our country. These geriatrics brought us into this mess, and I have no confidence they'll be able to get us out.. You have made your last political lane change Bernie, so turn your blinker off and park the car.
2
Given the massive outpouring of support for Bernie Sanders and his presidential bid--786 comments, the vast majority of which are extremely favorable--Sanders may just pull it off, and become the dark horse, the sleeper in the presidential sweepstakes. It is evident that progressive Democrats are hungry for a fresh face, and for someone who is not tainted by scandal. Clinton has lost, in my view, her credibility because of the acceptance of foreign donations in return for kickbacks, as well as her less than honorable behavior while secretary of state--remember the stonewalling on Benghazi--and people are ready for a new face. Sanders, who hails from Brooklyn where he attended highs school., has a "just folks" demeanor which people like. We just may be witnessing a campaign that will end with him in the White House. By God's grace, or Sec. of State Kerry might put it, "inch'alla!",.
25
Thanks for running Bernie. You're the only sensible candidate voice in the pack that is not a weather beaten hack who has come out of the woodwork of the past to try to fool the voters one more time with the slogan "change." Let's all really shake up the collection of incompetents and coat tail riders by sparking a Sanders for President candidacy that surprises them all with the strength of our hopes and commitment.
22
This is good news, though I think Lincoln Chafee has previously said that he, too, will seek the Democratic nomination for President, which means Sen. Sanders is not Mrs. Clinton's first intra-party rival.
The Democratic Party must avoid a coronation of Mrs. Clinton as its nominee. If she wins on the merits, then so be it, but she needs tough opponents in the primaries to get her ready for the fall election if she does indeed prevail.
I agree with much of what Sen. Sanders says, as do many Democrats. I also think that former Sen. Jim Webb, despite his position as a somewhat more centrist Democrat, is potentially a strong candidate.
In any case, let the battle begin. May our party choose its best candidate and not let fame be the only criteria.
The Democratic Party must avoid a coronation of Mrs. Clinton as its nominee. If she wins on the merits, then so be it, but she needs tough opponents in the primaries to get her ready for the fall election if she does indeed prevail.
I agree with much of what Sen. Sanders says, as do many Democrats. I also think that former Sen. Jim Webb, despite his position as a somewhat more centrist Democrat, is potentially a strong candidate.
In any case, let the battle begin. May our party choose its best candidate and not let fame be the only criteria.
16
Now let's just hope that, if he resonates as well with ordinary voters as we think he would, that those who would vote for him can actually vote and that their votes will actually count. Given all the efforts at voter suppression, that's no longer certain.
26
Senator Sanders is a decent, honest and capable senator. If successful, he will be a great president. He is what the country needs now. I hope that the American people will respond favorably and seriously to his candidacy.
I, however, fear that it will be difficult for him. His limited financial resources will no doubt be no match to the resources of those who will be drenched with billions of dollars from corporations and from lobbies, who will no doubt flood the media with commercials that will paint white black and black white to a vulnerable public. His candidacy will no doubt be seriously challenged.
This is the tragic flaw of our system. Yet I applaud Senator Sanders and commend him for throwing his hat in the ring. I wish him the very best of luck.
I, however, fear that it will be difficult for him. His limited financial resources will no doubt be no match to the resources of those who will be drenched with billions of dollars from corporations and from lobbies, who will no doubt flood the media with commercials that will paint white black and black white to a vulnerable public. His candidacy will no doubt be seriously challenged.
This is the tragic flaw of our system. Yet I applaud Senator Sanders and commend him for throwing his hat in the ring. I wish him the very best of luck.
45
I don't expect Bernie to win, although I would be pleasantly surprised if he did. However, by running for president, he will articulate a lot of issues that are obscured by the GOP and he will make Americans aware of what could be if only we did not have to deal with their constant obstructionism. He is a great spokesperson and is very articulate and clear about getting the message out. Now maybe he will make the whole country and not just Vermont understand what we really need to do to move forward.
25
If the choice is Hillary Clinton vs Jeb Bush, I will vote third party. If its Hillary Clinton vs any other Republican, I will vote for the Republican. If its Bernie Sanders vs Jeb Bush, I will vote for Bernie Sanders. The most important thing this year is to stop these two families from hogging the presidency. Its just bad and inherently corrupt.
15
I am glad there will be a primary and Sen. Sanders has my support. In he next election, I remain steadfast on one point: With things like ISIS a gigantic problem throughout the middle east, with the whole region destabilized and in turmoil, I simply cannot bring myself to support one of the people who voted to allow the Iraq invasion. Many people in congress did not fall for the Cheney/Bush shuck and jive. Those who did fall for it brought us what was then, and is to this day, the single biggest policy disaster in the history of our nation. In the general election, I will vote for a third party candidate before voting for someone who was short-sighted enough to support and enable the Cheney/Bush iraq invasion - which is still the source of much of the troubles in the world. How can anyone seriously trust someone who helped make the mess to clean it up? I just can't do it. And I will not do it.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
14
Go Bernie. Make her work for it, keep her honest. Best of luck to you.
11
Dear corporate media editors and journos:
1] Hillary is not a sure thing;
2] moderate, intelligent people of various political flavors, traditional to iconoclastic, libertarian to big government progressive, have more in common with Senator Sanders than they do with any other candidate;
3] Would Nader and Ron Paul supporters support Sanders over every other duopoly offering? You bet they would - and that is 15-20% of the population. While the legacy media will ignore them, this election will be fought and won on the world wide web.
4] Most Americans are sick of AIPAc, sick of the ADL, and sick of the disproportionate power and influence of the zealots and dissembling apologists of the Israel Lobby. Time to put America first, second, and third.
4] If "Citizens United" had gone the other way, there would be no constitutional principle preventing the US government for fining or jailing newspaper editors, or commenters, for ":electioneering" {i.e. political speech} before an election, complete with all the *selective* and partisan-based prosecution that would entail. Beware that your 'solution' to a problem isn't worse than the problem itself.
http://reason.com/blog/2015/04/03/new-york-times-opposes-corporate-speech
5] The world can be a better place, bu that means identifying the myriad forces who benefit from the welfare/warfare state of things, and voting them out.
1] Hillary is not a sure thing;
2] moderate, intelligent people of various political flavors, traditional to iconoclastic, libertarian to big government progressive, have more in common with Senator Sanders than they do with any other candidate;
3] Would Nader and Ron Paul supporters support Sanders over every other duopoly offering? You bet they would - and that is 15-20% of the population. While the legacy media will ignore them, this election will be fought and won on the world wide web.
4] Most Americans are sick of AIPAc, sick of the ADL, and sick of the disproportionate power and influence of the zealots and dissembling apologists of the Israel Lobby. Time to put America first, second, and third.
4] If "Citizens United" had gone the other way, there would be no constitutional principle preventing the US government for fining or jailing newspaper editors, or commenters, for ":electioneering" {i.e. political speech} before an election, complete with all the *selective* and partisan-based prosecution that would entail. Beware that your 'solution' to a problem isn't worse than the problem itself.
http://reason.com/blog/2015/04/03/new-york-times-opposes-corporate-speech
5] The world can be a better place, bu that means identifying the myriad forces who benefit from the welfare/warfare state of things, and voting them out.
13
Those of you who point to Sanders's Democratic candidacy as insurance against his running as an Independent (i.e., a third-party candidate) have more faith than I do in the rationality of voters' emotions. Just read these comments--some progressives are ecstatic at the possibility of Bernie Sanders as the Democratic Candidate. But, as much as I align with a lot of his thinking, he can't win in today's highly partisan, generously funded, hyperbolic politics. Remember, about 15 or 20% of voters--the least-informed and undecided ones--will decide the election. The conservative / liberal split is pretty much decided, 18 months out. Bernie Sanders: good for the nominating contest, not so good for the election.
1
University of Chicago alumnus. Maybe too smart for the general public. and just when we really need someone who is both innovative and intellectual. We only got one out of two with the current officeholder.
7
Tight on a budget and first time ever that I gave to a political cause because it was the first time ever it felt absolutely necessary to do so. Go Bernie!
30
Late night TV comedians are making fun of his looks. Like it or not, that's a barometer. In this image-veneer-conscious society, he needs to do something about that nutty-professor unkempt hair look.
2
Even though he is running in the Democratic primary—
—his history as an "independent" is, I think, a great advantage.
—his history as an "independent" is, I think, a great advantage.
20
Nix the age thing. Let's get this east-west coast, progressive democrat ticket clicking, for E. Warren is not going to run until 2020: Bernie Sanders and Jerry Brown IS the ticket! Yes, the others, like Obama and the GOP will go for the mean-green, blunt-smoking criticism, and you can be sure the 'lack of foreign policy' screed will ensue, however, take a look where our foreign policy has taken us over the last two decades. Make it stick: Sanders/Brown.
18
I'm a Vermonter. We know Bernie is as honest as a day is long. He has the support of the same people in Vermont who were mostly on the right: "Take Back Vermont", republican governor candidates, and yet "Bernie!" signs on their front lawn. Because they KNOW he is REALLY for the middle and underclass. A strong supporter of the military, and, smartly, not opposed to guns.. (This IS Vermont). I am EXCITED! (Yes, I know it's a long shot, but no matter what, he will smarten the discourse. This will not be about personalities, but about politics.)
45
Thom Hartmann made the same point about the yard signs. He remembers seeing Bush and Sanders lawn signs side by side!
15
Someone has to point this out so at the risk of calumny, here goes. Bernie says he has never done and will never do 30-second attack ads. But that's because Vermont is such a small state largely devoid of people (except in ski season) that he can shake hands with every voter. And looking ahead, he can safely swear off TV ads since he won't have two nichols to rub together.
I like Mr Sanders and wish him well.
My only concern with his entry into the race is that we may have a Ralph Nader do-over and end up with a George Bush in the White House as a result.
Been there, done that.
No need for repeats.
My only concern with his entry into the race is that we may have a Ralph Nader do-over and end up with a George Bush in the White House as a result.
Been there, done that.
No need for repeats.
2
Senator Sanders isn't mounting an independent third party campaign like Nader did. Therefore your point is irrelevant and uninformed. Senator Sanders is running for the nomination of the Democratic Party for the presidency.
6
If the USA is really the democracy Americans always tell it is, then Bernie Sanders will defeat Hillary Rodham Clinton and his republican adversary en route to become president in 2016 (bar his death or serious health issues in the middle of the road: he is old, after all).
4
I'm as socialist as he is, but "tax the rich" is neither a comprehensive strategy for governing a complex nation, nor appealing to most Americans. He doesn't seem nearly well-rounded enough to be a serious candidate.
His is a protest candidacy, and we can all thank him for that.
His is a protest candidacy, and we can all thank him for that.
1
Oh my word - what a refreshing thought- not to have the United States of America be involved in wars in some far off rat hole locations. Can we pull back from being the police of the world? Ever? I will donate $100 to Mr Sanders if nothing else to feel good about what the country use to be prior to Citizens United debacle
32
WOW, a real live Democrat, with a heart, a soul...and a brain! One who truly cares for all Americans.
Just love, love Bernie and all he stands for.
And, from BROOKLYN, yet. Just imagine a huge Fund Raiser at The Barclay Center headlined by Neil (Diamond) and Barbra (Streisand), two more great kids from the same part of BROOKLYN.
Happy Days are here again!
c.
Just love, love Bernie and all he stands for.
And, from BROOKLYN, yet. Just imagine a huge Fund Raiser at The Barclay Center headlined by Neil (Diamond) and Barbra (Streisand), two more great kids from the same part of BROOKLYN.
Happy Days are here again!
c.
34
Bernie Sanders will help recalibrate HRC's platform to skew left, back to its roots, focused on immigration, domestic issues, poverty, income inequality and reigning in big business.
10
HRC's roots were and are unchanged - how best to advance the power of HRC.
13
50 years ago, Sanders would have been considered a democrat and Hillary a republican. In today's politics, he is branded a socialist. That shows you how far the left has moved right over the past two generations.
27
Our ship of state is sinking and we desperately need help... soon!
I have been hoping Bernie would run and am thrilled he is going to. We need Bernie Sanders. A Sanders/Warren ticket can win.
Congress is completely beholden to the Koch brothers and payback is their goal. We have a Congress willing and ready to comply. Bernie is a straight shooter, without resorting to political double-speak. He has core values and is a Senator who actually earns his salary.
Go Bernie…Go!
I have been hoping Bernie would run and am thrilled he is going to. We need Bernie Sanders. A Sanders/Warren ticket can win.
Congress is completely beholden to the Koch brothers and payback is their goal. We have a Congress willing and ready to comply. Bernie is a straight shooter, without resorting to political double-speak. He has core values and is a Senator who actually earns his salary.
Go Bernie…Go!
19
“I do not have millionaire or billionaire friends.”
I guess Mr. Sanders doesn't consider any of his democrat colleagues’ friends. A quick look at the net worth of senators show that the top four are all democrats. In fact under Obama's definition of "millionaires and billionaires" Mr. Sanders qualifies with a new worth of around $.5 Million not including his house or other non-revenue generating assets.
I guess Mr. Sanders doesn't consider any of his democrat colleagues’ friends. A quick look at the net worth of senators show that the top four are all democrats. In fact under Obama's definition of "millionaires and billionaires" Mr. Sanders qualifies with a new worth of around $.5 Million not including his house or other non-revenue generating assets.
When I received the NYTimes alert that Sen. Saunders announced his candidacy for President I thought it was some cruel hoax or hack . This morning's NYTimes confirmed it was neither. For all progressives who have cynically written off the 2016 election cycle this announcement comes like a dawn at the end of a long, cold and bleak night. Hillary will have a true democrat and progressive challenger to her presumptive anointing as the Democratic Party's presidential nominee. This is great for the progressive agenda and country as there is at least one candidate who the isn't co-opted or intimidated by the Billionaire ruling class.
There are approximately 60 weeks between today and July 25th 2016. I'm wondering how the Koch Republican Party would feel to see a progressive Democrat arrive with $900 billion campaign chest with no contribution over $1000? Sen. Sauders please let us know where to send the money.
There are approximately 60 weeks between today and July 25th 2016. I'm wondering how the Koch Republican Party would feel to see a progressive Democrat arrive with $900 billion campaign chest with no contribution over $1000? Sen. Sauders please let us know where to send the money.
30
Sanders 2016
P.O. Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
Mine just went out!
P.O. Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
Mine just went out!
10
I don't know much about Bernie Sanders but I'm thrilled to see that he's running for President.
This should not be a coronation for Hillary. She'll probably win the nomination but it shouldn't automatically be easy.
I want MORE people to join the race.
And he's from Brooklyn!
This should not be a coronation for Hillary. She'll probably win the nomination but it shouldn't automatically be easy.
I want MORE people to join the race.
And he's from Brooklyn!
12
A non attorney, non-millionaire who answers questions before taking a poll to determine what people want to hear. Someone who has the guts to take on the issues which undermine our country's greatness: war, poverty, corruption, gross inequity of wealth and climate change. Is it possible? I may have to register as a Democrat.
39
Senator Sanders is unlikely to get the nomination, but he will put Secretary Clinton's feet to the fire on many important issues.
It would be wonderful if a candidate for the nomination were to announce his potential running mate, so voters would be able to vote for the entire package.
Go, Bernie!
It would be wonderful if a candidate for the nomination were to announce his potential running mate, so voters would be able to vote for the entire package.
Go, Bernie!
12
I don't know anything about this guy, and I'll bet most Americans don't either. That could work to his advantage, as most seem to be sick of Hillary. If Sanders can trump her weaknesses--all the questions about her trustworthiness and one-percent connected elitism--he could rise to popularity quickly.
10
If you want to know more about Sen. Sanders, he has an excellent Senate website and Facebook page, and is active on Twitter.
5
As long as he doesn't pull a Nader and run as a 3rd party candidate in the general election, he should definitely run.
3
Seems to me many folks are not reading this story before they comment. Sanders plans to run as a Democrat, NOT a 3rd party candidate (a la Nader). So he can't mess things up by splitting the Democratic vote. The hard part, for him, will be to win the Democrtic Party nomination.
15
Senator Bernie Sanders will not be the next President of the United States. Nor will Senator Elizabeth Warren. Neither politician is likely to win the Democratic nomination, and it is difficult to imagine either putting together a coalition that can lead to 270 electoral votes. Liberal voters should consider the ill-fated campaigns of Howard Dean and Ralph Nader before throwing their weight behind either individual.
Indeed, something quite consequential is at stake in the 2016 election, the possibility of Democrats retaining the White House for a third consecutive term. With that will come the ability to continue reshaping the federal judiciary, including the Supreme Court, further support the ACA, press immigration reform, and advance stricter environmental laws, among many others.
During the 2000 campaign, there was a rallying cry that the major parties were same. Within a few short years, following the Iraq invasion, Abu Ghraib, torture sites, ill-advised tax cuts, etc., we learned otherwise, and Democratic voters should not forget that when championing their "dream" candidates.
Indeed, something quite consequential is at stake in the 2016 election, the possibility of Democrats retaining the White House for a third consecutive term. With that will come the ability to continue reshaping the federal judiciary, including the Supreme Court, further support the ACA, press immigration reform, and advance stricter environmental laws, among many others.
During the 2000 campaign, there was a rallying cry that the major parties were same. Within a few short years, following the Iraq invasion, Abu Ghraib, torture sites, ill-advised tax cuts, etc., we learned otherwise, and Democratic voters should not forget that when championing their "dream" candidates.
6
What? An intelligent candidate who can't be bought and who cares about the poor, the future course of our nation, our environment and thoughtful discourse. A candidate who voted against war and has a plan to keep jobs on these shores. Bernie Sanders will bring thoughtful deliberation to the 2016 election. He announced his candidacy outside his place of business because that is where he works hard for all the people. 16 years in the house; 8 in the Senate and 8 years Mayoral experience.
27
We just made a recurring monthly contribution to Bernie's campaign and urge every other middle class American to do the same. He speaks for all of us who feel we are no longer being heard, no matter your political affiliation. Support him here: https://berniesanders.com/
29
Thanks for the link. My contribution has been made.
4
Bravo Bernie! We need you more than ever.
18
Bernie ran for and lost Burlington Mayoral elections as a Socialist. In 1980, with a scandal involving the Democratic Mayor, Bernie won by about 10 votes because we knew he was honest. He then upset some of us Liberals by siting a wood-chip-fired electric power plant within the City limits on a nice piece of land near the Winooski River. He wanted public control of the power generation to support preservation of jobs within the City. He made the point that workers came first.
In 1982, the Democratic machine did its best to take back a political office it had held for decades. The numbers of voters for that election were fantastic, and he won handily as a socially-liberal and fiscally-conservative honest, straightforward man of the people. His positions were popular then, and to those that know him, popular now.
In 1982, the Democratic machine did its best to take back a political office it had held for decades. The numbers of voters for that election were fantastic, and he won handily as a socially-liberal and fiscally-conservative honest, straightforward man of the people. His positions were popular then, and to those that know him, popular now.
25
I am happy to see I have an option in Democratic party. I am going to hold my $100 dollars until after the first presidential debate.
2
Without a blink, I will vote for Bernie! His candor about this country's problems is refreshing.
31
Two points, first this is probably a good thing, after Hillary went silent while the Sunday talk shows were full of the latest seamy stories about the Clinton Foundation it became clear that someone should challenge her, to force her to come up with a defense for the Foundation before the general election. Secondly, a challenge from the left that she defeats may make the liberal wing of the party more willing to support her. It doesn’t matter if he moves her to the left because she will be faced with a Republican Congress and won’t be any more able than President Obama at getting anything done.
This can go south two ways, Saunders could win the nomination and go down in flames in the general election or he could change his mind and decide to run as an independent in the general election splitting the Democratic vote, both will result in undivided Republican rule.
The left wing of the Democratic Party really hasn’t earned any right to claim the nominee. At least the Tea Party has captured enough seats in Congress to justify its claim to select the Republican standard bearer. However, the left wing of the Democratic Party is mostly noisy bloggers and columnists while its politicians, and candidates are centrists. The Left should concentrate on changing the party from the bottom up first.
Saunders talks of creating a national movement to get money out of politics and reform the system. This is a wonderful idea, I just don’t see why he has to run for President to do it.
This can go south two ways, Saunders could win the nomination and go down in flames in the general election or he could change his mind and decide to run as an independent in the general election splitting the Democratic vote, both will result in undivided Republican rule.
The left wing of the Democratic Party really hasn’t earned any right to claim the nominee. At least the Tea Party has captured enough seats in Congress to justify its claim to select the Republican standard bearer. However, the left wing of the Democratic Party is mostly noisy bloggers and columnists while its politicians, and candidates are centrists. The Left should concentrate on changing the party from the bottom up first.
Saunders talks of creating a national movement to get money out of politics and reform the system. This is a wonderful idea, I just don’t see why he has to run for President to do it.
1
Why would anyone believe that Sanders will draw Clinton to the left? All that will happen is that Clinton will begin talking out of the left side of her mouth until Election Day. Vote for Bernie on his own merits, not some supposed voodoo he'll work on Hillary.
24
You know what?
I think people are "ready" for Bernie!
I think people are "ready" for Bernie!
37
Bernie's candidacy highlights one of the very unfortunate cultural defects we struggle with in America: The lazy way we use labels rather than actually thinking and understanding.
For example: "socialist"
This is an economic concept, not a religion, but vast numbers of people treat it like it was really shorthand for a contract with Satan. Capitalism and Socialism both have strong points and defects. We could weave a better America by including some of the strong threads of socialism ... but we won't. Too many people hear the label and turn off their minds.
For example: "socialist"
This is an economic concept, not a religion, but vast numbers of people treat it like it was really shorthand for a contract with Satan. Capitalism and Socialism both have strong points and defects. We could weave a better America by including some of the strong threads of socialism ... but we won't. Too many people hear the label and turn off their minds.
15
About time! Congratulations to America!
23
Bravissimo for Sen Sanders and bravo to the people of Vermont for electing him. Bernie is the fresh air that Hilary doesn't produce. I am a Democrat but Hilary is too much the striver intoxicated by what she sees as her power and appeal. The Democrats can do without a suburban rich girl who went to all the 'right schools' and who has never known what it is like to be poor and count your $5.00 in the grocery to see how much cheap food you can buy.
11
Good for Bernie. Now what the rest of us Democrats have to let go of is the notion that Hillary is inevitable.
27
“I do not have millionaire or billionaire friends.”
And that, ladies and gentlemen, makes him unique amongst major candidates--and why he deserves to be supported by everyone who isn't a millionaire or billionaire.
We the People, not They the Oligarchs. RUN BERNIE RUN!
And that, ladies and gentlemen, makes him unique amongst major candidates--and why he deserves to be supported by everyone who isn't a millionaire or billionaire.
We the People, not They the Oligarchs. RUN BERNIE RUN!
30
The best news I've heard in a long time! Bernie Sanders is one of the few, very few, political figures that I have any real respect for. It would be a wonderful dream for his candidacy to actually be a counterweight to the antediluvian and money centered whirlpool on the extreme right.
27
He will have my vote in primaries and the general election, and he will have my money even sooner.
Hooray!
Hooray!
26
I was afraid of this. If, by some miracle, Bernie Sanders gets on the ballots a la Ralph Nader, you can hand the presidency to the Repubs--regardless of who their candidate is. Sanders can only take votes from Clinton. It'll be a Democratic disaster!
1
Senator Sanders is running as a Democrat, so if he wins the nomination he not Ms. Clinton will be on the ballot as the Democratic candidate.
13
But only one of them, Bernie OR Hillary will be running against the Repub. I assume that's one of the reasons why Bernie will run as a Democrat & not an Independent.
2
I respectfully disagree. Bernie discusses issues with the public in a straight-shooting, "call them as he sees them", down-to-earth manner that even unsophisticated voters can understand. He is persuasive and passionate, eith a record of integrity unsurpassr d in recent times.
I think his ability to communicate issues and his track record of not being for sale might finally wake up the vast majority of Americans who are ignorant, indifferent and/or have voted aginst their own interests the last 30 years.
I think his ability to communicate issues and his track record of not being for sale might finally wake up the vast majority of Americans who are ignorant, indifferent and/or have voted aginst their own interests the last 30 years.
3
An earth shaking ticket would be Liz Warren & Bernie Sanders, but I think we'd be better off with them both in the Senate until their 102. I don't want 8 years & out for the twin consciouses of America....2 out of 535....terrible odds, no wonder America is in trouble.
If only America was ready for the likes of them! Most Congress-critters are there fattening their own nests while serving the Oligarchs. Us little people might get a post office renaming or the Interstate near us resurfaced but the Interstate system is far more important to the out of control deadly extremist Fascist Capitalist Oligarchs who want all who labor to work for 33 cents per hour.......
I hope that Sanders running against Hillary in the primary will keep Hillary from running to the center which is the way most Democrats go thanks to Fox News & the non-profit for-profit-non-tax paying churches across America. We will never have a good liberal progressive country again if no one will run as a liberal progressive. And if you will look up who did all the good things in America in the last 200 years you'll find it was liberal progressive....the very word conservative says STOP! Sit Still! Don't Do It!, I wouldn't!, Not Prudent!, NO followed by 12 million more NOOOOOOOs.
I you don't want to be a Chinese citizen 20 or 30 years down the road you better quit voting in Republicans who do lots & lots of things.....BUT NEVER FOR YOUR FAMILY! Get to rehab you Koch-heads! Go Bernie! Go Hillary!
If only America was ready for the likes of them! Most Congress-critters are there fattening their own nests while serving the Oligarchs. Us little people might get a post office renaming or the Interstate near us resurfaced but the Interstate system is far more important to the out of control deadly extremist Fascist Capitalist Oligarchs who want all who labor to work for 33 cents per hour.......
I hope that Sanders running against Hillary in the primary will keep Hillary from running to the center which is the way most Democrats go thanks to Fox News & the non-profit for-profit-non-tax paying churches across America. We will never have a good liberal progressive country again if no one will run as a liberal progressive. And if you will look up who did all the good things in America in the last 200 years you'll find it was liberal progressive....the very word conservative says STOP! Sit Still! Don't Do It!, I wouldn't!, Not Prudent!, NO followed by 12 million more NOOOOOOOs.
I you don't want to be a Chinese citizen 20 or 30 years down the road you better quit voting in Republicans who do lots & lots of things.....BUT NEVER FOR YOUR FAMILY! Get to rehab you Koch-heads! Go Bernie! Go Hillary!
4
Sanders can win most definitely win.
End negative tribal thought of why he can't win now.
Put all your mental energy into "HE CAN WIN" IF WE WANT HIM TO.
End negative tribal thought of why he can't win now.
Put all your mental energy into "HE CAN WIN" IF WE WANT HIM TO.
21
Like most pandering politicians, the Bernmeister employs that most cloying of phrases every third paragraph (or more frequently): 'working Americans'. I always either cringe or become uncharacteristically bemused. The bemusement is winning out today. Ultra-liberals like Bernie presumably will yearn for the support of that largest minority in our Nation: folks who don't work. There are far many more adults (over 18) who don't work (at all) than 'working Americans'. Bernie therefore presumes, as do most of our lowest caste (the American Politician) to represent both 'working American' and 'non-working Americans, with the former working to provide tax revenue that provides food, shelter, benefits and other services to the latter. What a circle of support! (BTW, I cringe at times when I think of my father, a lawyer in Manhattan, who worked 90 hour weeks for 40 years and made a very good living. Somehow, I don't think Bernie would consider him a 'working American', which is both a shame and a spotlight on the essence of pandering these days: class distinction, that most degrading of compliments to the 'lower' class.
1
I would not count Bernie Sanders out and, unlike most candidates and the media, he does address the issues that really matter to most Americans. If we lived in a country where there was true freedom of speech and freedom of the media, rather than freedom of the moneyed interests to drown out true debate, Bernie Sanders would have a more likely opportunity to really change the trajectory of our country for the better.
While Elizabeth Warren says a lot of things that I really believe in and like to hear, she lacks the professional experience of a Bernie Sanders, which I think is important in running the country. One of his burdens will be explaining what he means by being a Democratic Socialist, since the Republicans have largely succeeded in blurring the lines between Socialism and Communism.
Hillary Clinton has the experience, the resources/ money to run a high-powered campaign, and knows politics. The big question that liberals/ progressives have about her is her commitment to their (our) causes. Her speech alongside Mayor Dinkins indicates an awareness of the economic and inequality issues that are big obstacles to progress. I believe that she is still the woman who wrote "It Takes a Village," and if given the opportunity she will fight forcefully and effectively for a more humane society. She still has to convince others to believe that.
While Elizabeth Warren says a lot of things that I really believe in and like to hear, she lacks the professional experience of a Bernie Sanders, which I think is important in running the country. One of his burdens will be explaining what he means by being a Democratic Socialist, since the Republicans have largely succeeded in blurring the lines between Socialism and Communism.
Hillary Clinton has the experience, the resources/ money to run a high-powered campaign, and knows politics. The big question that liberals/ progressives have about her is her commitment to their (our) causes. Her speech alongside Mayor Dinkins indicates an awareness of the economic and inequality issues that are big obstacles to progress. I believe that she is still the woman who wrote "It Takes a Village," and if given the opportunity she will fight forcefully and effectively for a more humane society. She still has to convince others to believe that.
1
It is incredibly discouraging that we (the Democrats) will not have a real campaign or any viable alternative to Hillary. Hillary was a decent First Woman, a great Senator, and a good Secretary of State. But a Hillary presidency is doomed even if she wins: (1) she is too old, (2) she is polarizing, and (3) the Foundation finance issues are disgusting and will not go away. Bernie is 73 and will not have the money to viable. The quality of Republican candidates is getting worse with each election cycle. I have never voted for a Republican in my (long) life but I would vote Romney/Bloomberg if they joined forces. They wouldn't have to go begging to the Kochs and Adelson. We need leadership and we have none.
1
So, you don't care where the parties stand on various issues?
Heck, I'd vote for Daisy Duck if she runs on the Dem ticket, if only to keep more far-right judges off the SCOTUS.
Heck, I'd vote for Daisy Duck if she runs on the Dem ticket, if only to keep more far-right judges off the SCOTUS.
1
With the news out of Baltimore and the seething discontent from a nation with a diminishing middle class and the lowest rate of upward social mobility in the developed world I can only think that maybe Leonard Cohen was right. "Democracy" is coming to the USA.
Sail on Sail on
O mighty Ship of State
To the Shores of Need
Past the Reefs of Greed
Through the Squalls of Hate
sail on, sail on, sail on, sail on.
It's coming to America first.
The cradle of the best and the worst.
It's here they got the range
and the machinery for change
and its here they got the spiritual thirst.
It is here the family is broken
and it is here the lonely say
that the heart has got to open in a fundamental way:
Democracy is coming to the USA."
I've been waiting for 22 years since I first heard those Cohen lyrics , at last a glimmer of hope.
Sail on Sail on
O mighty Ship of State
To the Shores of Need
Past the Reefs of Greed
Through the Squalls of Hate
sail on, sail on, sail on, sail on.
It's coming to America first.
The cradle of the best and the worst.
It's here they got the range
and the machinery for change
and its here they got the spiritual thirst.
It is here the family is broken
and it is here the lonely say
that the heart has got to open in a fundamental way:
Democracy is coming to the USA."
I've been waiting for 22 years since I first heard those Cohen lyrics , at last a glimmer of hope.
10
Thank you, Sen. Sanders! Having you in the running makes me feel alive and kicking again, coming out of a seemingly endless, politically induced coma. Let's go!
28
Good, good, good!!! This will strength Hillary and move her to the left where she needs to be and Bernie Sanders would make the perfect Vice President to encourage the Democratic left which has been ignored by Obama. A win, win situation.
3
Win, win.
BUT not with Clinton—substitute Elizabeth Warren.
BUT not with Clinton—substitute Elizabeth Warren.
Wonderful.
But we don't need a Ralph Nader longshot in his mid seventies—
—we need Elizabeth Warren, with the fire-in-her-belly.
Then let a new progressive and populist groundswell begin!
But we don't need a Ralph Nader longshot in his mid seventies—
—we need Elizabeth Warren, with the fire-in-her-belly.
Then let a new progressive and populist groundswell begin!
3
This country can simply not tolerate two Presidents in a row who are intelligent and honest. Both of those traits can be easily avoided by electing any one of the GOP candidates.
8
I feel hopeful each time I read something about or from Bernie Sanders. I don't know if this country deserves Bernie Sanders, and vice versa, but Bernie will have my wholehearted support.
I feel confident that if Sen. Sanders were elected, Citizens United would quickly become a thing of the past, minimum wage would be a fair wage, half our national coffers would not go into the military, and probably a good bit more. He would remind Democrats and Democratic leaders of what Democratic values sound like when they're not hollow inside. My guess is that even Republicans would hold a certain respect for someone who is as plain, true and unpretentious as Bernie Sanders.
I'm going to dare to hope, and not just from the sidelines. I'm with you, Bernie!
I feel confident that if Sen. Sanders were elected, Citizens United would quickly become a thing of the past, minimum wage would be a fair wage, half our national coffers would not go into the military, and probably a good bit more. He would remind Democrats and Democratic leaders of what Democratic values sound like when they're not hollow inside. My guess is that even Republicans would hold a certain respect for someone who is as plain, true and unpretentious as Bernie Sanders.
I'm going to dare to hope, and not just from the sidelines. I'm with you, Bernie!
106
If only! The reality is that IF Sanders could be elected, and sadly that's very doubtful, he'd be facing the same obstructionism President Obama faces today. And so would Hillary. But we cannot let any Repub take the WH and mess up the Supreme Court (any more than it already is).
I am delighted that Bernie Sanders is running against Hillary Clinton. And I am even more delighted that he has not decided to run as an Independent and a splitter.
I will vote for him in the primary and if, in the unlikely case he wins the nomination, I would certainly vote for him in the general. He is a good common sense kind of American and a great President. Perhaps. We don't know how well he can handle large organizations and the Republican mud machine. Still, I like to hope he would be good at it.
Still he hasn't got much of a chance against Hillary. He hasn't got her money, her name recognition and frankly, her experience with every bit of dirt the Republicans can throw. Most people will be very put off by the fact that he is a socialist, but those are people who don't understand the meaning of the word Socialism. Still, having Bernie run will be good for the Democratic party and will serve to open up the conversation to more possibilities for government to help those Americans who are in need.
I welcome his presence in the Democratic party. But I suspect he will not be nominated and I am also ready for Hillary who is so strong, so talented and so experienced.
I will vote for him in the primary and if, in the unlikely case he wins the nomination, I would certainly vote for him in the general. He is a good common sense kind of American and a great President. Perhaps. We don't know how well he can handle large organizations and the Republican mud machine. Still, I like to hope he would be good at it.
Still he hasn't got much of a chance against Hillary. He hasn't got her money, her name recognition and frankly, her experience with every bit of dirt the Republicans can throw. Most people will be very put off by the fact that he is a socialist, but those are people who don't understand the meaning of the word Socialism. Still, having Bernie run will be good for the Democratic party and will serve to open up the conversation to more possibilities for government to help those Americans who are in need.
I welcome his presence in the Democratic party. But I suspect he will not be nominated and I am also ready for Hillary who is so strong, so talented and so experienced.
6
A nice interjection of common sense from a fellow elephant lover. Thanks for sharing.
Sanders has the same chance as a liberal that Reagan had as a conservative for the same reason: He says three things everybody understands and keeps saying them. Today he led by example. Ten minute news conference. No sculpting of phrase or PR, no extras. And in a culture yearning for simplicity there is direct connection. There's a hunger that doesn't show on the graphs.
While most of the country may not read the Times, the wave of comments on this article shows the force of feelings he uncorks. He'll raise a lot of money, too. He actually could win.
While most of the country may not read the Times, the wave of comments on this article shows the force of feelings he uncorks. He'll raise a lot of money, too. He actually could win.
26
I'm glad Sanders is getting in the race and will be talking about campaign finance reform and wall street. But frankly, I have a pretty negative impression of him as a person based on a joint appeared he had on Bill Maher with then Independent Presidential Candidate Buddy Roemer during the 2012 election. Campaign finance reform and Wall Street were Buddy's two main issues and Bernie couldn't have been more distainful, rude and dismssive of him on that program. He even acted like he didn't know who he was when Buddy Roemer had been a successful governor and congressman. His demeanor towards Buddy Roemer was truly distasteful.
But Bernie was in lock step with Obama (who have never given a flip about campaign finance reform or too big to fail).
Interesting that Bernie has also borrowed Buddy's idea of getting $100 from a couple million people:" In a speech at the National Press Club in Washington on March 9, Mr. Sanders said he fantasized about getting 3 million supporters to each donate $100 to his campaign". Of course that didn't work out so well for Buddy and I pretty sure it won't for Bernie. The Dems will fall in line behind Hillary, but maybe he will be useful in shaping the discussion. But he will never be president.
But Bernie was in lock step with Obama (who have never given a flip about campaign finance reform or too big to fail).
Interesting that Bernie has also borrowed Buddy's idea of getting $100 from a couple million people:" In a speech at the National Press Club in Washington on March 9, Mr. Sanders said he fantasized about getting 3 million supporters to each donate $100 to his campaign". Of course that didn't work out so well for Buddy and I pretty sure it won't for Bernie. The Dems will fall in line behind Hillary, but maybe he will be useful in shaping the discussion. But he will never be president.
Love you Bernie. I'm not a rich donor but I can afford $100 and it is forthcoming. You're a great man and I want you to be president. You are kind, generous, and care about regular people. I will volunteer for your campaign as well. Best of luck.
28
Everyone keeps saying Bernie can't win, but wasn't the same thing said about Obama, until the debates. Let's have some hope and effort to get people to the polls voting for Bernie. You never know what will happen. A defeatist attitude is a bad place to start. Go Bernie!
15
If Amercian workers really voted with their hearts and minds and the candidate who has their best interests....Bernie Sanders would win in a landslide.
25
Where do I send my check? Finally, someone who legitimizes those values that made us great as a nation. Honesty. Fairness, Respect for other opinions. A true citizen patriot. From an ex Fairfield County Republican.
13
Sanders 2016
PO Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
PO Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
Finally, a real candidate steps up to the plate!
15
As an ex-pat, it's been awhile since I've voted in a US election. But now I will leap gleefully into the task. And I'll second Z.M.'s dream ticket of Bernie Saunders and Elizabeth Warren. Oh but if the world could ever be so just!
10
Yes! Finally! This is the only elected official who's views make me proud to be an American.
9
I love Bernie Sanders.
Of course he isn't going to win. He is running so he can express his sensible ideas in the debates and in news coverage. He is also running to keep Hillary from being blithely non-committal on important issues.
I hope the news coverage doesn't fixate on the normal nonsense, like his poll numbers. He's out there to voice his ideas, and people should hear them. It will be so refreshing to hear a candidate who isn't fixated on raising money, making everyone sort of happy, and following the path of least resistance.
Of course he isn't going to win. He is running so he can express his sensible ideas in the debates and in news coverage. He is also running to keep Hillary from being blithely non-committal on important issues.
I hope the news coverage doesn't fixate on the normal nonsense, like his poll numbers. He's out there to voice his ideas, and people should hear them. It will be so refreshing to hear a candidate who isn't fixated on raising money, making everyone sort of happy, and following the path of least resistance.
69
Hooray for Bernie! I just donated to his campaign. I don't care if he "doesn't have a chance." He's right on all the issues that count and can be a voice for them. Let's see how far he can take it and not pooh-pooh him right out of the gate. I'd rather support him than Hillary any day. And I won't be made to feel guilty that "a vote for Bernie is a vote to put a Republican in the white house." "Buck it," as Obama recently said. Support what matters. Support Bernie Sanders.
9
I can now breathe a huge sigh of relief please pick Elizabeth Warren for VP and let's go get 'em!
11
WOW ... now I'm actually excited about the 2016 presidential campaign. Go Bernie! Someone who has the independence to address the concerns most Americans care about. I'll definitely give as much as I can spare.
9
Bernie 2016
PO Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
I just squeezed out all I could, it's only through folks like us that Bernie will win. Thanks!
PO Box 905
Burlington, VT 05402
I just squeezed out all I could, it's only through folks like us that Bernie will win. Thanks!
1
Political satire Idea: In a devious attempt to undermine the Clinton candidacy, the Koch Bros donate 100Million to Bernie Sanders, expecting him to force Hillary so far left in the primaries she then alienates voters and can't win a general election. (Mirror of what the GOP does in primaries by going so far right.) But the Koch Bros and fellow Oligarchs are shocked to find Bernie inspiring a groundswell of support and juggernaut into the White House. The movement includes a Constitutional Amendment to that eliminates all private political donations. Elections are exclusively publicly funded. The revolution happens peacefully through the political process which is no longer corrupted by money. (A fellow can dream.)
6
Love it! The power of imagination is not released or fostered during campaigns because they are bought and managed. Candidates are controlled by handlers and fawn over polling numbers. Fred, you are a dreamer! When there are enough people like you on the scene candidates will speak of their own dreams, not parse, triangulate, and stutter.
I have waited 47 years--since the death of Robert Kennedy--for a candidate to speak to my dreams. One can not wait that long unless he is a dreamer. Fred, it is good to know I am not the only one.
I have waited 47 years--since the death of Robert Kennedy--for a candidate to speak to my dreams. One can not wait that long unless he is a dreamer. Fred, it is good to know I am not the only one.
2
Mr. Sanders, " has said that he will not run a negative campaign and that he has never run an attack ad in his life. "
That in and of itself, makes Senator Sanders, someone a worthwhile addition to the campaign. Maybe he can lift the campaign 2016 from the 'swamp"
Go Bernie, go!
That in and of itself, makes Senator Sanders, someone a worthwhile addition to the campaign. Maybe he can lift the campaign 2016 from the 'swamp"
Go Bernie, go!
21
Good for you, Bernie Sanders. I'm sick of Democrats running as they apologize for being more liberal than wealthy, selfish, greedy, callous Republicans.
22
Welcome news! If Bernie's still running when the NC Democratic primary rolls around, I'll vote for him, even though I'm registered as undeclared. He'll never win, but at least he'll broaden the political rhetorical spectrum beyond far right, conservative, and "conservative lite." My dream ticket Jerry Brown-Bernie Sanders.
5
I am pleased to see that Bernie has entered the race. It's important to have a candidate from the "democratic" wing of the Democratic party. Wall St. is still not properly regulated and this makes for an unstable economy and the likelihood of another crash. (Does anyone really believe the Dow should be as high as it is?) Without change the "big boys" on Wall St will walk away again as everyday people get crushed. Like FDR Bernie can save capitalism from itself. Bernie will bring a lot of common sense to the race and might make other candidates realize that while the system is working great for them and their "swell" friends, it is not working great for too many other Americans and there has to be some serious change. Obama promised to change the "trajectory" of America, but he failed. We still live in the Age of Reagan. Bernie will kill Reaganomics and return us to the realistic economic policies established by FDR and the New Deal.
14
If he ran as an Independent I would vote for him, as i did many times when I lived in Vermont. I'll still vote for him in the primary, but under no circumstances would I ever vote for H.R. Clinton. Too corrupt, too much of a war monger, too compromised. But I'm glad he is running, to show the Dems that they need to change from the corrupt corporate party they are back to wha they were, more of a party of the people.
5
If he ran as an independent he would be handing the Republicans the election because a nice little chunk of liberals would swing over to him from Hillary's corner.
This is obviously one of the major issues with the way our voting system is set up and it's one of the many things that should frustrate the American public to no end, but it will never change because it helps those already in power remain in power.
This is obviously one of the major issues with the way our voting system is set up and it's one of the many things that should frustrate the American public to no end, but it will never change because it helps those already in power remain in power.
1
He's got my vote.
13
Amazing news. Now people have to mobilize
18
If you feel like I do that Hillary is really the champion of wall street and other very wealthy people, there is plenty of room to her left despite the insincere platitudes she offers to that wing of the party. Sanders on the other hand is a true believer in trying to address the issue of growing inequality and crony corporate welfare which has become endemic in our society (the recently passed House republican budget...defense contractor slush fund is illustrative of this problem. Real progressives should support Sanders to send a message to other prospective democratic party candidates who would be far superior to Hillary Clinton's corporate juggernaut which dispenses favors to its supporters and lumps of coal to middle class Americans.
8
I find it refreshing to hear Bernie Sanders talk in a straightforward way about our problems. I think many other concerned Americans will have that feeling too.
10
many of you say, I love Bernie but he can't win
why not ?
if you look at where bernie stands on the issues, on most issues, he is where a *majority* of Americans stand
So the Times labeling him as "leftist" is really inaccurate; if you take poll data as defining left/right in this country, bernie is a centrist
so, if he wasn't being mis characterized, he could win, cause he stands for what amajority of americans believe in
why not ?
if you look at where bernie stands on the issues, on most issues, he is where a *majority* of Americans stand
So the Times labeling him as "leftist" is really inaccurate; if you take poll data as defining left/right in this country, bernie is a centrist
so, if he wasn't being mis characterized, he could win, cause he stands for what amajority of americans believe in
16
Run, Bernie, run! And if you don't get the Democratic nomination, make sure you go the third party route: The American Progressive Party.
Signed,
Old School Republican
Signed,
Old School Republican
1
Senator Sanders's campaign would be stronger if he pruned out certain extreme positions that science, medicine, and engineering do not support. There's no evidence that GMOs cause illness. Coal is far more dangerous than nuclear power.
But he is right about wealth inequality and income inequality. We need to spend more on people, infrastructure, education, science, and medicine.
But he is right about wealth inequality and income inequality. We need to spend more on people, infrastructure, education, science, and medicine.
3
Sanders will not influence Hillary Clinton. She is bought, and will stay bought.
12
The avid support for Bernie in many of these comments makes me fear that he might be the Ralph Nader of 2016.
2
Perhaps, if he were running, like Nader, on a separate ticket. But he's running as a Democrat, unlike Nader in '00. The HRC machine would like us to believe otherwise.
1
You can not blame Nader for the fact that the corporate media did all it could, like Paul, like Perot, to sink his chances.
America was too stupid to vote for Perot, or Nader, or Paul.
It keeps voting for the entrenched servants of Mordor in the duopoly.
The amazing thing - the breath-taking thing is Hillary supporters who think she's "new" in some way because of her gender.
That is weapons-grade stupidity, and it is more powerful than all the truth and light and good new ideas that the media would be sure not to cover.
America was too stupid to vote for Perot, or Nader, or Paul.
It keeps voting for the entrenched servants of Mordor in the duopoly.
The amazing thing - the breath-taking thing is Hillary supporters who think she's "new" in some way because of her gender.
That is weapons-grade stupidity, and it is more powerful than all the truth and light and good new ideas that the media would be sure not to cover.
2
Many commenters are aiming at Hillary. The worst thing we could do as progressives is to not express our enthusiasm for Bernie at this moment. Then we're really lost.
Thank goodness Sanders is more realistic than the liberals making comments on this blog. He isn't a savior and it will take a change in the makeup of Congress to pass any useful laws. Warning to Liberals, don't think you can just vote for Sanders and wash your hands of political our realities, if you want to save this country from the fascists.
4
Thanks, Bernie Sanders, for throwing your hat in the ring!
Bernie will cut through the double-speak and obfuscation typical of politicians beholden to those who buy our government with campaign contributions. He will speak plainly about concerns of ordinary Americans. He may win if he can help millions of Americans understand how government can be changed to narrow income and opportunity gaps, rebuild infrastructure, and blunt the potentially disastrous effects of climate change.
Citizens United was a horrible ruling. I will join other actual flesh-and-blood individuals to promote free speech by donating to Bernie's campaign. Go Bernie!!
Bernie will cut through the double-speak and obfuscation typical of politicians beholden to those who buy our government with campaign contributions. He will speak plainly about concerns of ordinary Americans. He may win if he can help millions of Americans understand how government can be changed to narrow income and opportunity gaps, rebuild infrastructure, and blunt the potentially disastrous effects of climate change.
Citizens United was a horrible ruling. I will join other actual flesh-and-blood individuals to promote free speech by donating to Bernie's campaign. Go Bernie!!
11
It's a sad commentary on American political life to know that somebody like Sanders will never, ever be elected president. His political and economic views are absolute non-starters for huge numbers of Americans who appear resigned to the neoliberal prescription for the country, i.e. imitating China's horrible, awful, basically non-existent labor and environmental laws in a race to the bottom. Honestly, sometimes I think "right to work" states should secede from the USA and apply to become provinces of China.
When you convince yourself that breathing clean air and earning decent wages are no longer attainable because the dictates of global capitalism must be obeyed, you're in a hopeless place.
When you convince yourself that breathing clean air and earning decent wages are no longer attainable because the dictates of global capitalism must be obeyed, you're in a hopeless place.
7
I love Bernie, but I don't think the Presidency is where he or Elizabeth Warren can be most effective. I see this unfolding with Bernie on the ticket as VP w/ Hillary and Elizabeth in the Supreme Court put there by the new Clinton in the White House. You may not like it, but she is a shrewd, political animal -- like her husband. And remember, Hillary was all about healthcare reform before they shot her down. I don't think she's abandoned the populace. She's playing the game to get to the seat of power.
2
Welcome e Senator Sanders. Unfortunately the media will not be interested in you or your candidacy. All we will hear is how you are running to push Hillary to the left, not what you really believe and are trying to accomplish.
5
"....on a grassy patch outside the Capitol known as the swamp", quite frankly I'm surprised anyone can make the distinction but in any event I'm glad Sen. Sanders has decided to run. Cream puff positions on important issues are over for the entire lot of them. Bernie hold their feet over the fire and good luck.
trazmo, Chicago
trazmo, Chicago
5
Just mailed $100 to support Bernie's candidacy. I hope many others will contribute whatever they can. If he receives a really huge number of individual donations - regardless of the amount contributed - it might just get the media's attention. And it might just freak out those who are unhappy about his candidacy.
26
I just ordered my Sanders/Warren buttons: whichever way you pair them. Finally, a Democrat whose positions I totally agree with. There are many of us who supported Bill Clinton and Obama but who aren't in sync with Hillary Clinton. It's hard for her to take a less hawk like position, given her vote on invading Iraq; she's not just "one of the people" given the money she (they:still married so her problem too) earned post-Presidency. How does she make an argument against income disparity/hedge fund salaries when her family personifies what the problem is? And the promotion of Chelsea as future presidential material is down right offensive. There are other choices. Let's not let money call all the shots in 2016.
14
Just sent him $100 and will do every month. Same as my mom and brothers. On our way. 2,999,997 more americans to go.
27
Make that 2,999,996.
An honest politician. ...not tarnished by Whitewater...questionable e-mail practices ... support for the Iraq War ... Wouldn't it be nice!
13
He's definitely got my vote. But I don't believe in promises anymore when politicians avoid accountability and regulations can be overturned. It's to be expected with our nation divided and controlled by corporations. A house divided will not stand. President Lincoln was right: "If destruction be our lot, we ourselves must be its author and finisher." History has shown this to be true. At least Senator Sanders has a good record of trying to "do right by all men".
9
Finally a candidate brave enough to run against the Clinton machine. Good for you Bernie. The Democrats could use to have more candidates running for the nomination instead of turning the party into a monarchy.
8
So many of us have futilely been pleading for America to WAKE UP. I think
Bernie Sanders will now embody the "smelling salts" needed to waft under our collective noses and maybe, just maybe, accomplish that. He's the real deal, a fantastic human being, smart, articulate and beholden to no oil magnates, hedge funders or casino owners - that alone qualifies him in my book - thank you Bernie!
Bernie Sanders will now embody the "smelling salts" needed to waft under our collective noses and maybe, just maybe, accomplish that. He's the real deal, a fantastic human being, smart, articulate and beholden to no oil magnates, hedge funders or casino owners - that alone qualifies him in my book - thank you Bernie!
9
The US is the land of opportunity and long shots. There is absolutely no reason the majority of Americans can not support him. God speed Bernie Sanders.
88
My sentiments exactly. Thanks for sharing Moses!
David
David
2
At last we have the only candidate worthy of the esteemed office of the President - Bernie Sanders. Alas, everything is stacked up against him - rampant corruption, Citizens' United, super PACs, a vivious principle-less opposition, partisan Scotus, surrounded by ignorant, vain, greedy, narcssist colleagues without a moral core. How I wish he was the only candidate for the Top Office of the Land. But if wishes were horses beggars would ride. Much as we would love an upstanding human being to take Office, that will never happen. His greatness lies in his honesty, integrity and fighting for the common man which will also prove to be his undoing.
5
It won't happen unless you and I believe it can happen
along with millions of others - support and donate !!!
along with millions of others - support and donate !!!
2
Whether Bernie wins or not, I have donated to his campaign website because he is one of the very few politicians with courage, intelligence and integrity. He gets campaign money from unions and private citizens, not from the Koch brothers or major corporations. Bernie for president!
11
I just read the link in the first line of this story to the Times piece that analyzes the Sanders campaign, positioning, etc., outlining "Why he will win"/"Why he Won't." It's fine as far as political analysis goes, but they forgot to mention that there are millions of Americans who sense in their HEARTS that most of our politicians are just in the game for their egos--not out of a sense of public service and doing what's best for our country. The ones who have proven themselves to be truly in the game for the betterment of our country have more power than these analyses give credit. Obama won two terms because we felt he was on our side, not the side of corporations and wealthy donors. Others in this group include Elizabeth Warren, and Jerry Brown of California.
16
Bernie Sanders is one of the few in politics who look after the interests of the American people, not just those who donate millions. He speaks the truth, and works hard when the chips are down. He was the only Washington politician to try to help veterans get health care when the VA scandal broke. His bill forced Congress, the President and the VA to provide some relief to our vets. Sanders deserves our trust.
We Americans can and should believe that our vote counts. If so, then Sanders does not face an uphill battle. Just remember "We the people" matter more than money. Yet that is only true if we get involved, hold candidates and the media accountable, and vote. In other words, don't be led to slaughter like sheep. Be active and vote!
In 2007 Hillary was also thought invincible and presumptive, but she was upended by a more charismatic and inspiring candidate. Sanders is not that charismatic but he can inspire the American people to take control of their government back from the bankers, the fossil fuel industry, and demagogues in politics and media.
Here's the challenge to the American people: in the age of television where youth and beauty are valued above all else, can we have the patience and determination to listen and discern? Can we elect a president who doesn't look like a movie-star? Can we base our vote for election to most important position in the world on different criteria than we used for choosing high school class president or homecoming queen?
We Americans can and should believe that our vote counts. If so, then Sanders does not face an uphill battle. Just remember "We the people" matter more than money. Yet that is only true if we get involved, hold candidates and the media accountable, and vote. In other words, don't be led to slaughter like sheep. Be active and vote!
In 2007 Hillary was also thought invincible and presumptive, but she was upended by a more charismatic and inspiring candidate. Sanders is not that charismatic but he can inspire the American people to take control of their government back from the bankers, the fossil fuel industry, and demagogues in politics and media.
Here's the challenge to the American people: in the age of television where youth and beauty are valued above all else, can we have the patience and determination to listen and discern? Can we elect a president who doesn't look like a movie-star? Can we base our vote for election to most important position in the world on different criteria than we used for choosing high school class president or homecoming queen?
25
Now I'm excited. Not because Bernie Sanders is going to be President, but because he speaks for me. Completely. He know exactly what is going on and is not afraid to say it out loud. It's also going to be good for Hillary because she will need to answer him and Them. With his addition to the race, the Democrats will stand in stark contrast to the Republicans. And that stand will finally be clearly articulated!
25
I applaud Bernie Sanders for entering the contest and the sense to do so as a Democrat rather than as an Independent. He is also one politician whose position has not changed over the years and does not change depending on what audience he is talking to. That alone makes him a breath of fresh air. As a Democrat, I strongly feel that the Democratic Party desperately needs some competition in a nominating contest this election cycle since I don't feel comfortable with the Democrats fielding one candidate. Now if the Democratic Party only had the fortitude to encourage a few more to throw their hat in the ring, they would be much better off over the long run of this election cycle. If Hillary Clinton is really that strong a candidate, she will survive the Democrats nominating process anyway.
51
How about this - an unscripted, parliamentary style debate [no not really answering the question] between Sanders and Clinton.
No corporate MSM spin or filter - just questions from the working and middle class about the economy, the wars, the budget, etc.
Sanders would, as the phrase goes, take Mrs. Clinton to school.
Ron Paul can moderate.
No corporate MSM spin or filter - just questions from the working and middle class about the economy, the wars, the budget, etc.
Sanders would, as the phrase goes, take Mrs. Clinton to school.
Ron Paul can moderate.
7
I am delighted to be able to vote for Senator Sanders! If his outreach into the black community is good, he may win it. I agree with every him on almost every issue. He has never taken corporate contributions and he should make sure the voters know this. I doubt that the corporate people who own and operate this country (the war, oil, and banking corporations) will be pleased. I hope he has good security. I just love him.
17
I have been reading the comments and want to point out two things.
First, Sanders has not been "labelled" a Socialist; that is what he calls HIMSELF. So suggesting that this is somehow a pejorative that will be used by the media is absurd.
Second, Hillary does not have a billionaire in her corner either. Yes, she is expected to raise the well over $1 billion that will be NECESSARY to remain "in the game." But that is a far cry from having a guarantee of $900 million from the Kochs and $100 million from Adelson. And frankly, if Sanders wants to remain a viable candidate, he will ALSO need $1 billion to get anywhere. That is simply the sad truth.
All that said, the country is simply not ready to vote for an unabashed socialist and "wealth redistributor." (Now THAT is pejorative.) Even were he to win the nomination, he simply could not beat ANY of the current GOP candidates. Not even with the supposed "lock" that the Dems have on the majority of the electoral college.
However, as many have pointed out, even if all he does is move Hillary to the left - hopefully considerably so - that will be enormously valuable. In this regard, while a Sanders/Warren ticket is (sadly) pure fantasy, a Clinton/Warren ticket would be unbeatable.
First, Sanders has not been "labelled" a Socialist; that is what he calls HIMSELF. So suggesting that this is somehow a pejorative that will be used by the media is absurd.
Second, Hillary does not have a billionaire in her corner either. Yes, she is expected to raise the well over $1 billion that will be NECESSARY to remain "in the game." But that is a far cry from having a guarantee of $900 million from the Kochs and $100 million from Adelson. And frankly, if Sanders wants to remain a viable candidate, he will ALSO need $1 billion to get anywhere. That is simply the sad truth.
All that said, the country is simply not ready to vote for an unabashed socialist and "wealth redistributor." (Now THAT is pejorative.) Even were he to win the nomination, he simply could not beat ANY of the current GOP candidates. Not even with the supposed "lock" that the Dems have on the majority of the electoral college.
However, as many have pointed out, even if all he does is move Hillary to the left - hopefully considerably so - that will be enormously valuable. In this regard, while a Sanders/Warren ticket is (sadly) pure fantasy, a Clinton/Warren ticket would be unbeatable.
2
I disagree, I think many Repub and Indy voters will listen to his message which is I CARE ABOUT YOU, and he has a record to prove it.
2
I went to UVM and knew Burlington as a progressive paradise. Small cities can be run with progressive principles. What progressives know, and liberals must admit, is that on a larger scale the union/bureaucrat machine/talking head class makes it much harder. Liberals love to grandstand and rely on things that have outgrown their use.
I am fine if Sanders wins, as he will show liberals just great is the gulf between their rhetoric and how humans behave within the unquestioned liberal machine.
I am fine if Sanders wins, as he will show liberals just great is the gulf between their rhetoric and how humans behave within the unquestioned liberal machine.
1
No time for analysis. Let's cheer and support this great man all the way, starting with our donations. Go Bernie!
17
Hillary Clinton has accomplished a great deal, but she is a neoliberal who now takes on semi-progressive points of view to placate the left and liberals. Bernie Sanders is a senator who is an unopologetic left/progressive who would represent the majority of the people instead of the interests of the elite.
17
I totally reject the meme about his candidacy just serving as an influence to pull HRC to the left. The democratic party establishment and Hillary Clinton are beholden to Wall Street and corporatist cartels. I will support Senator Bernie Sanders in every way possible, and will do it with conviction, in the belief that he can win the nomination and go on to become president of the United States. Once he does, I'll lobby his administration to address pending issues, like holding Wall Street criminals accountable, and investigating and prosecuting crimes by both, the Bush and the Obama administrations.
11
I'll give Bernie my vote and my time although I know he's got little to no chance of winning the nomination.
2
Eugene McCarthy must be cheering from his grave.
8
One of the not many honest representatives in Congress.Here is an idea for his backers. One less meal out a month and help Sen. Sanders.We did it for Sen Warren.We can do it for Sen. Sanders.Just imagine having him as POTUS.The world might just respect us again
13
Hooray! I just sent in my first donation.
15
Just sent him $100, and as a working stiff, I really can't afford it. But the truth is, I can't not afford it.
He's the only candidate, anywhere, who is not in the pockets of money; cares about working and middle class folks; speaks the truth, and doesn't slap backs and glad hand; and most important, has a brain and a heart.
Plain and simple: If every thinking, feeling, rational, non-hating, non-fundamentalist, democracy-respecting, tired-of-narcissistic, corrupt politician and government gave him something, he could win.
And how amazing would it be to have a leader who speaks truth and justice for all. We might actually become a civilized society.
He's the only candidate, anywhere, who is not in the pockets of money; cares about working and middle class folks; speaks the truth, and doesn't slap backs and glad hand; and most important, has a brain and a heart.
Plain and simple: If every thinking, feeling, rational, non-hating, non-fundamentalist, democracy-respecting, tired-of-narcissistic, corrupt politician and government gave him something, he could win.
And how amazing would it be to have a leader who speaks truth and justice for all. We might actually become a civilized society.
27
Bernie will activate the Left, get it registered to vote. Then, if he does not win the nomination, he will INSIST that his supporters still go vote AGAINST the GOP. He will explain it pragmatically, clearly, and this will increase Democrat turnout. GOP is in trouble on this basis.
This is brilliant Democrat politics, "it's all good" was never more appropriate.
This is brilliant Democrat politics, "it's all good" was never more appropriate.
10
Bravo, Senator Sanders !
Your stated positions "on the issues" are my positions "on the issues".
Win, lose or draw, your positions will cause "ripples" !
Your stated positions "on the issues" are my positions "on the issues".
Win, lose or draw, your positions will cause "ripples" !
11
I'm glad to hear that Bernie Sanders is running for President.
It's important for the Democratic Party to advocate progressive policies.
It's important for the Democratic Party to advocate progressive policies.
12
I'm in for a hundred bucks! That'll be a bargain if Bernie can keep Hillary honest.
11
Good!! I'd take Bernie over Hilary any day! Hilary is not truthful, an opportunist and a hypocrite! I don't like her at all! I think Bernie actually cares about the American middle class unlike Hilary and certainly unlike anybody in the GOP! Yes, Bernie is a socialist but we need a real change in the this country!!! Bernie has my full support for many reasons!!
4
Is it too early to vote now? This man is the epitome of what a public servant should be.
19
Just sent in my first $100. Call me a cock-eyed optimist but I think he might resonate with the voters if they get to know him.
24
I just went to his site and donated.
Absolutely YES – I will put my money behind his effort.
Absolutely YES – I will put my money behind his effort.
12
Finally a Democratic candidate who is slightly left of Bush Sr.
9
I'm glad Bernie is in the race, if for no other reason than to debate the odious HRC. However, his chance of winning the nomination, let alone the presidency, is roughly equal to that of a unicorn winning the Kentucky Derby.
But the real fight is the presidential elections and can he beat Bush or Christie?
Yes. Why? Can the electorate be that stupid, as to want either of them (especially another Bush)?
1
Bernie Sanders is a long-shot, not for his ideas, which, if taken seriously, might resonate with a plurality if not a majority of Americans. But the moneyed political elite anointed Hillary Clinton the winning Democratic candidate months before she officially entered the primary race.
Everything we know about the candidates and the horse race we know through the media. And the media over and over fully cooperate with the elite political process by heaping lavish amounts of unpaid coverage on the chosen candidates, or in this case, candidate. They deny all but the most miniscule, usually dismissive, coverage of any other contenders who lack inclusion status or the millions and billions of dollars of backing necessary to compete in America’s commercialized election process.
Thus, Bernie Sanders never has a chance of being anything better than a long shot. And neither does anybody else. Witness similar treatment also in the very rare coverage by the Times of former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley, on today’s same front page: “While Mr. O’Malley has not officially announced anything other than that he is thinking “seriously” about a presidential run, he has traveled frequently to Iowa and other early voting states making the case that he is, in fact, an alternative to Mrs. Clinton…But he has trouble breaking through.”
Yes, he has trouble breaking through, because the media have helped marginalize him right from the start, ensuring that he is unlikely to ever break through.
Everything we know about the candidates and the horse race we know through the media. And the media over and over fully cooperate with the elite political process by heaping lavish amounts of unpaid coverage on the chosen candidates, or in this case, candidate. They deny all but the most miniscule, usually dismissive, coverage of any other contenders who lack inclusion status or the millions and billions of dollars of backing necessary to compete in America’s commercialized election process.
Thus, Bernie Sanders never has a chance of being anything better than a long shot. And neither does anybody else. Witness similar treatment also in the very rare coverage by the Times of former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley, on today’s same front page: “While Mr. O’Malley has not officially announced anything other than that he is thinking “seriously” about a presidential run, he has traveled frequently to Iowa and other early voting states making the case that he is, in fact, an alternative to Mrs. Clinton…But he has trouble breaking through.”
Yes, he has trouble breaking through, because the media have helped marginalize him right from the start, ensuring that he is unlikely to ever break through.
4
I am going to help Mr. Sanders with his fantasy: A check for $100 for his campaign.
Go Bernie!
Go Bernie!
12
Bravo for a very brave politician. I have watched Bernie for decades and always been flabbergasted that an active politician can tap into the real hopes and aspirations of the real American populace. Hopefully this should be an eye opener for the ruling 1%
83
Bernie will be like Zephyr Teachout in this years NY governors race. He'll get 1/3-40% of the votes with little or no funding. Hillary is center-right & Bernie is the only true left-wing candidate among the 16(?) total potential candidates across all the parties. Time to bring the conversation back towards the left.
Thank you Bernie- you're a patriot!
Thank you Bernie- you're a patriot!
9
Senator Sanders just gave the media their favorite political coverage meal: false equivalency.
Every time a far right candidate says things that often amount to turning the US into a conservative theocracy, the majority of the media will turn and say, "But on the other extreme, Senator Sanders says..." as if advocating European and Canadian models of a mixed economy are even radical at all.
The media will be painting him and his policy ideas as simply the political flip side of Bobby Jindal or Rick Santorum. That will be the narrative because, as I said, the media loves this kind of false equivalency journalism -- "he said, she said" mostly rules how they like to tell stories. Nice and tidy, easy to tell, and everyone can follow the plot.
If Sen. Sanders thinks he can beat that game, he is either incredibly vain, or hopelessly naive.
Every time a far right candidate says things that often amount to turning the US into a conservative theocracy, the majority of the media will turn and say, "But on the other extreme, Senator Sanders says..." as if advocating European and Canadian models of a mixed economy are even radical at all.
The media will be painting him and his policy ideas as simply the political flip side of Bobby Jindal or Rick Santorum. That will be the narrative because, as I said, the media loves this kind of false equivalency journalism -- "he said, she said" mostly rules how they like to tell stories. Nice and tidy, easy to tell, and everyone can follow the plot.
If Sen. Sanders thinks he can beat that game, he is either incredibly vain, or hopelessly naive.
So glad to hear this announcement. Have never donated one red cent to a blasted politician because it all goes into the pockets of CBS, NBC, or ABC, but if it is to happen, Mr. Sanders or Ms. Warren will be the first recipient.
If you guys get the $100 per person donations that Bernie Sanders was joking about, give me an email. I just might do it.
If you guys get the $100 per person donations that Bernie Sanders was joking about, give me an email. I just might do it.
1
I'm going to vote for Bernie Sanders for President. He's the best candidate for every policy reason you can name -- domestic or international. I have no interest in predicting who will win or has the most money, or counting Iow caucuses, or wondering whom the Times-Picayune will endorse, or comparing Ted Cruz to Elizabeth Warren by hairstyle. The assignment to me, the voter, is: vote for the best one. O.K., I will. I pick the guy who has consistently opposed stupid warmongering, actually cares about poor people and injustice, promotes education and safeguarding the environment, and eliminating corporate control of politics. This is easy.
10
Finally a real progressive Democrat I can trust. I am with you Bernie and I am sure there are many others like me.
18
Democrats and Republicans are farther to the right today than they were decades ago. Bernie Sanders, as a socialist today, is what the middle-of-the-road establishment Democrats were in the 60s, 70s and early 80s. To me, Bernie=Democratic Party.
16
Good for Bernie. Remarkable individual whose heart and brain have always been in the right place.
12
Bernie Sanders is wasting his and our time by 'running' for nomination. He is grumpy but has no gravitas; He is churlish but lacks charisma. He looks like one who needs Dulcolax badly, and his populism will win him a few uber-liberals like Karen Garcia and Rima Rigas but he has no chance of being nominated, let alone of taking on the worst nominee on the Republican side.
He can write off the last remaining item on his bucket list. He is running. So, bucket.
He can write off the last remaining item on his bucket list. He is running. So, bucket.
3
so politics as usual is OK with you?
Sounnd like you judge a candidate on looks and personality and not their convictions.
2
Bernie Sanders will not win the Democratic nomination for president. Bernie will not be able to overcome Hillary Clinton's momentum or as they say, the fix is in. With all that said, Bernie Sanders is the only adult in the race for president. All the other candidates, including Hillary, are just posturing and positioning. They say very little of substance and don't want rock any boats. I've yet to hear anything of substance from the Republican candidates, they just want to balance the budget, cut taxes and do away with Obamacare. What about job creation. Bernie Sanders really stands for something, like healthcare for all and keeping us out of foreign adventures. Bernie has called himself a socialist, so that will not fly with the American public, since all he wants to do is help those Americans that can't help themselves.
5
If Ted Cruz and Scott Walker can get sympathetic and in depth stories then it would seem that a more senior, more productive legislator deserves the same. There is nothing radical about Bernie, unless you are in the 1% and if we are looking to satisfy them, the remainder of us will surely lose.
9
Sad that this is relegated to the website's sidebar. It should be front and center. This election sorely needs fresh competition from both sides. Viable alternative candidates deserve to be heard as loudly as the front runners do.
6
I'm writing MY check right now! Go Bernie!
My very Republican mother thought he made more sense than any politician she had heard in decades; I only wish she were still here to vote for him!
My very Republican mother thought he made more sense than any politician she had heard in decades; I only wish she were still here to vote for him!
9
Simply put, here, at last, is an opportunity to show the world (and ourselves) that it is after all possible for someone to compete for the highest office in the land, and do so as kind, caring, honest, thoughtful, respectful human being - not by merely acting out those traits, but by actually behaving in a genuine fashion, a decent person of integrity.
Whatever else happens, it will be worth it just to see someone who is willing to serve as an example - to demonstrate that it is indeed possible for someone with such traits engage in our so-called political process.
Bravo!
Whatever else happens, it will be worth it just to see someone who is willing to serve as an example - to demonstrate that it is indeed possible for someone with such traits engage in our so-called political process.
Bravo!
6
Run, Bernie, Run! Count me in. Bernie Sanders is the most honest of politicians and has terrific inner strength; that's enough to scare all of the other candidates of either parties and their supporters!
11
This born in Brooklyn woman is voting for you, Bernie! How great that you are running. It gives me hope for the future, and win or lose (WIN!) I believe in you and that is so much more than I can say about any other candidate.
It gives me hope as an American! And I'm sending you my money, too!
Good luck to you and I hope you're our president in 2016.
It gives me hope as an American! And I'm sending you my money, too!
Good luck to you and I hope you're our president in 2016.
11
How do you plan to do that when Sanders is running as a Democrat and has absolutely no chance whatsoever of getting the Democratic nomination? Unless, after Hillary gets the nomination, he decides to run as an Independent and gets their nomination, you will have no opportunity to vote for him except as a write-in candidate, which will virtually nullify your vote.
No way am I voting for the Republican candidate or the Republican in a pantsuit. Bernie's the guy.
8
I am a long-time Democrat, but Bernie will get my vote in 2016. From the many times I have heard his ideas in the media, he seems to be the only adult member of Congress who understands our country's problems and has some ideas of how to solve them. Unfortunately, he is not black and he does not wear a skirt, which seem to be pre-qualifications in the minds of the current Progressives. At least, I get the feeling that Senator Sanders cannot be bought, like most other national politicians.
4
I am a sprightly 63, but I know Bernie, Liz and Hil are all to old for the rigors of the presidency.
Look at all the before and after photos of the last 10 presidents.
Grandma and pop pop are not up to it and will need a nap.
Look at all the before and after photos of the last 10 presidents.
Grandma and pop pop are not up to it and will need a nap.
He's even farther to the left than Hillary?
As far as I can tell, there's no one who's in the center and publicly dedicated to the center.
Maybe Hillary will end up in the center part of the time, but without dedication.
I'll vote write-in for Joe Lieberman.
As far as I can tell, there's no one who's in the center and publicly dedicated to the center.
Maybe Hillary will end up in the center part of the time, but without dedication.
I'll vote write-in for Joe Lieberman.
1
Comparing Sanders' platform to those of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama reveals two points: how far to the right the "New Democrats" have taken the party and, sadly, how far right the general populace has gone - courtesy of my "favorite" Australian, Rupert Murdoch.
7
Bernie Sanders might affect the debate, but this is frivolous. He is unqualified by experience for the office - he is a senator, not an executive. Voters may still vote for ideology, rather than qualifications, but what's more disturbing is that Sanders, like Barrack Obama eight years ago, seems oblivious to his own lack of qualifications. As memory serves, Obama's learning curve was enormous. It's a large price to ask the American public to handle again.
That said, Sanders' passion is impressive, but some of his statements release on social media also show him to be a divisive spouter of inflammatory, incomplete claims. His appeal is to the extremes, unfortunately, because his actual politics may be well focused.
That said, Sanders' passion is impressive, but some of his statements release on social media also show him to be a divisive spouter of inflammatory, incomplete claims. His appeal is to the extremes, unfortunately, because his actual politics may be well focused.
Most of my income comes from Social Security but I just committed $10 a month for twelve months to his campaign. Nothing much, I agree, but if everyone who feels as I do (many, many millions I suspect) he might have a chance. And even a chance is worth any sacrifice you can make. If you're regularly sending in comments to the Times you're probably a lot like me in your views, so please support those views with as much as you can afford. Please!
15
When I was in my early twenties this presidential candidate came along and everything he said just seemed to resonate with me. His perspective, substance, style and vibe all seemed to reflect what I thought what was absolutely imperative for the time. I enjoyed campaigning for him and voting for him, and I adored him as President for all eight years. I still think of Reagan as the best president of my lifetime.
But times have changed. (As Reagan once said of the Democratic Party: "I didn't leave them, they left me." That's now exactly how I feel about the Republican party. They've become nothing less than weird and disturbing.) And along comes this guy named Bernie Sanders and everything he says seems to reflect the urgent mandate of our era. His concerns about income inequality and climate change and so many other things that are critical for us to address as a nation--he is pitch-perfect on all of these things. (Yes, I even think Reagan would agree with him on most of these issues; it's a common sense perspective, spoken in a courageous and blunt manner.) I follow Sanders on Facebook and each of his posts on my "newsfeed" are a breath of fresh air. This guy is saying it like it is, and I totally applaud the fact that he is throwing his hat into the ring.
But times have changed. (As Reagan once said of the Democratic Party: "I didn't leave them, they left me." That's now exactly how I feel about the Republican party. They've become nothing less than weird and disturbing.) And along comes this guy named Bernie Sanders and everything he says seems to reflect the urgent mandate of our era. His concerns about income inequality and climate change and so many other things that are critical for us to address as a nation--he is pitch-perfect on all of these things. (Yes, I even think Reagan would agree with him on most of these issues; it's a common sense perspective, spoken in a courageous and blunt manner.) I follow Sanders on Facebook and each of his posts on my "newsfeed" are a breath of fresh air. This guy is saying it like it is, and I totally applaud the fact that he is throwing his hat into the ring.
176
Thank you for your commentary, coming from a Republican and Reagan supporter it gives me some hope for the future of our country.
1
I disagree with Sanders on almost everything but the absence of corruption or even the appearance of impropriety is refreshing, especially compared to Hillary Clinton.
5
Howard Dean would have made a excellent president. Bernie could also be most excellent! Give him a chance before assuming he's a crackpot of some sort please, we know a little something about him up here and boy howdy do we like him, he wins by landslides even while Republicans are sworn in around him (yes, even here in VT). We like him because he is compassionate and smart and says truth to power, again and again and again. His thick Brooklyn accent has morphed into a sound of Vermont, spring peepers and Bernie, ahhhhh.
9
I'm sure Ms. Clinton is thrilled to finally get her name out of the headlines for all her thieving.
3
A Brooklyn-born Jewish Democratic socialist from Vermont for president.
Now this will be a history-making election.
Now this will be a history-making election.
12
I really like what Bernie Sanders stands for. I consider him a true Democrat and a politician for real people. I would never vote for him.
Why not? Two words: Ralph Nader. Just as Nader gave the election to Bush, a vote for Bernie is a vote given to the most monolithic right wing pro-war, anti-poor, Ayn-Rand Republican candidate. I'll bet the Koch Brothers are trying to figure out, at this very moment, how they can surreptitiously fund Bernie; keeping him on the ballot to siphon enough votes away from Hillary and buy the next tight election.
Why not? Two words: Ralph Nader. Just as Nader gave the election to Bush, a vote for Bernie is a vote given to the most monolithic right wing pro-war, anti-poor, Ayn-Rand Republican candidate. I'll bet the Koch Brothers are trying to figure out, at this very moment, how they can surreptitiously fund Bernie; keeping him on the ballot to siphon enough votes away from Hillary and buy the next tight election.
2
To everyone wringing their hands about how Bernie will take votes away from HRC and "pull a Nader", open your eyes! There's been no coronation! Hilary is not the presumptive heir to the nomination. I admit that I would have voted for her if Bernie hadn't jumped in, but now that he has, there's no contest as far as I'm concerned. He represents what it used to mean to be a Democrat. It used to mean standing up for the disadvantaged, the disenfranchised, for using the power of government as a counterbalance to the power of the wealthy. HRC has moved too far inside the beltway and gotten too comfortable there to be a credible voice for the average American. Maybe that was inevitable. Two stints in the White House and a stretch as Secretary of State doesn't exactly keep you in touch with the masses. Nevertheless, she's dangerously close to being one of "them". If the worst happens and HRC gets the nomination over Bernie, maybe having to face a real challenger will center candidate Clinton. That's the second best scenario. But the best possible outcome is Bernie for President!
5
Well it appears that liberals, socialists, Marxists, progressives, anarchists and fresh-air inspectors of all known types and varieties have got their man.
But exactly what are they supposed to do with him?
But exactly what are they supposed to do with him?
2
LOVE this man! He has such great integrity! At the very least, like the article said, he will make Ms Clinton have to answer some very hard questions on military and banking. At the very best, we have an honest and experienced man, who really cares about Americans, in the White House!
Can I dare hope for a Sanders/Warren ticket?
Can I dare hope for a Sanders/Warren ticket?
4
The majority of the American public pretty much line up with Sanders on the issues. Most of it is just common sense. He doesn't stand a chance.
5
As a long time Independent in a state with closed primaries, I may just have to grit my teeth and switch my party affiliation to Democrat so I can cast my vote (along with my donation) for Senator Sanders!
11
Bernie Sanders is a fraud from an unpopulated socialist state. He lied when he said he was an "Independent". He never was. He consistently voted with the Democrats in the Senate, as was rewarded with plum committee assignments and chairs.
Sanders' declaration that he wants to be the DEMOCRAT candidate for President exposes him for the fraud he's always been.
Sanders' declaration that he wants to be the DEMOCRAT candidate for President exposes him for the fraud he's always been.
1
The soundly alive if not as numerous as New York or California population of Vermont thanks for you for referring to them as virtually non-existent.
You should check the statistics for where the best health care and schools in the nation reside.
You should check the statistics for where the best health care and schools in the nation reside.
Great news for democrats and independents! While Hillary is a formidable candidate, she is clearly a Centrist which means corporate dough will call her shots. Bernie meanwhile touches on issues that resonate with the average person, income inequality, excessive CEO pay, declining standard of living, the need to boost social security, etc. We need a firebrand to rally the base.
4
I like Bernie and think he is a fantastic candidate. He would make an excellent President of the United States. He will need lots of money and that is going to his biggest problem. I would love to hear him debate Hilliary Clinton.
6
Count me in! I wouldn't call Sanders a "leftist." I'd call him an honest man.
8
Are you saying leftists are not honest?
1
Bernie Sanders has often and proudly referred to himself as a socialist. And Bernie isn't a socialist, in the way that Rand Paul is a libertarian, but a true believing socialist; one, moreover, with a gift for conveying his ideas clearly and unambiguously. Bernie will go far and America even farther if, as a result of Bernie's brave candidacy, it loses some of its exaggerated, and profoundly self hobbling, fear of socialism.
6
In this publication and others, I see Americans who are constantly whining and complaining about how corporate interests and their lobbyists have taken over the government and its agenda and that in order to save the democracy "we must do something about it before it is too late".
Well, the election of Bernie Sanders just might represent that opportunity to finally start changing the culture in Washington. The question is, if Americans are now brave enough to just not talk about it but actually DO something about it!
Well, the election of Bernie Sanders just might represent that opportunity to finally start changing the culture in Washington. The question is, if Americans are now brave enough to just not talk about it but actually DO something about it!
4
It'll be interesting to see what the press does with Sanders, & whether he'll be treated as was Kucinich in 2008, including being bumped from the tv debates, after which, to the relief of the Democratic candidates, the phrase "single payer, not for profit, comprehensive health insurance" (such as Canada & most of Europe has) was never mentioned again.
2
Please, Bernie, rethink your entry. I would much prefer you as President than any of the candidates so far announced. But your entry is likely to ensure a Republican victory. Recall the 2000 election. Gore had more popular votes than Bush but on election night Florida was a toss-up (Bush was leading by fewer than 2000 votes.) The Supreme Court closed down a recount of the Florida vote and essentially elected a President for the first time in history. Ralph Nader got close to 3 million votes nationwide and over 97,000 votes in Florida. If Nader had not run, most of his votes would have gone to Gore and we would have been spared 8 years of Bush. Please, please - do not let this happen again!
2
You can relax. Whoever loses the Democratic primary will bow out and support the winner. Nader was an independent.
2
bill - I hope you are right and I would be happy to support Sanders. But I have a feeling that the Republican attack machine will call him a socialist, which would then morph into a communist, and we could end up with President Ted Cruz. I still would much prefer it if Joe Biden would enter the race. Not only does someone have to be elected; he/she then needs to be able to work with the other party in order to govern. I think that Biden is the only person who could effectively do that.
1
This is now getting very exciting! Wonder who he would name as his running mate? Sanders will be blistering in his usual, never-back-down way!!! Even though he stands little chance for election, I am really looking forward to seeing how the country will view him.
2
You write that Bernie Sanders injects a "progressive voice" into the Presidential race. The use of such "charged" language-the word "progressive"- (stating it as a fact) is appropriate for an Opinion piece or Editorial; but, inappropriate for a "news" story. In my opinion Sanders is "Regressive" and worse- he is "Boring". The concept of "sharing the wealth" is not progressive- it is over two thousand years old. The Bible inspired communal arrangements Acts 2, verses 44 and 45:"All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need." Depending on one's subjective view, socialism has either failed or succeeded. Arguably it is fundamentally inconsistent with the right to own property. Sanders is not even a long shot. He will be fortunate to place last.
I can't decide whether “I think people should be a little bit careful underestimating me,” is the best or worst slogan ever. But I sure am glad Bernie's running. If-and-until we get money out of government, this country will continue swirling the drain. Bernie's the only candidate making that a priority.
4
Say hello to the next President of the United States! He will have the support of the Rainbow Coalition,made up of minorities, labor, progressives, women, students, LBGT and others who have formed the greatest voting coalition ever. Without the Rainbow Coalition, Democrats can't win. With it, Republicans will never have the votes. The Rainbow Coalition has already spoken, we don't want Hillary. Bernie understands that 60% of the country wants real Wall St reform and banksters in jail. With Bernie we'll not only get Wall St reform and a return to Glass Steagall, but a host of other reforms; campaign finance reform, foreign policy reform,marijuana legalization, alternative energy, real work on climate change and more.You will not be throwing away your vote if you support Bernie. He has the same chance that Obama had in 2007 when he was stacked up against Hillary. He is a clear choice, no matter how much she tries she will never be the progressive's choice. Bernie is our choice far and away. The Republicans have no answer for Sanders, he's won countless times in what used to be a republican strong hold. How? By delivering for the poor and delivering for the middle class. Corporate Dems are shaking in their Gucci's as Hillary fails to get traction among the growing ranks of progressives. We get it, the deck is stacked against us and the Congressional and state legislatures don't get it. A vote for him is a vote for real change
4
I'm an indie and he seems like a breath of fresh air.
2
I am not a democrat or a republican. The notions, as I understand them as to what constitutes a libertarian looks to me like a drop down a rabbit hole. Although many of the individuals who are accorded non-stop media attention are not but a scintilla of an atom different in that they are ALL neo-conservative, neo-liberal ideologues. Why, I don't know but they, with the exception of Mr. Sanders aggressively support economic and military policies that have been an unmitigated failure for the past 30 years. All of them, with the exception of Mr. Sanders has promulgated and supported policies that have brought ruin to the economy of the 99% while increasing the wealth of the ruling rich who place their bets on one or the other of the NeoConLibs. I want a practical, pragmatic non-ideologue who is not just an empty suit (or pant suit) who will deliver the goods to he who owns him. Looks to me like Mr. Sanders is the only actual potential leader. The rest of the lot are just led around by the gold ring in their noses.
2
I am waiting for his formal committee to form so I can send him 100. dollars. Not much.
But if he can help the Democratic party get back to its roots I welcome him.
I confess I am not happy with Ms. Clinton. The use of private servers rubs me the wrong way. And how many of you read the pro publica article of march 27th of this year? The sense of entitlement also rubs me the wrong way. The money that has flowed to her from foreign elements I find troublesome don't understand the issues about the uranium but I know the Russians now own it.
So.
One hundred bucks.
A "C" note.
Maybe more later.
But if he can help the Democratic party get back to its roots I welcome him.
I confess I am not happy with Ms. Clinton. The use of private servers rubs me the wrong way. And how many of you read the pro publica article of march 27th of this year? The sense of entitlement also rubs me the wrong way. The money that has flowed to her from foreign elements I find troublesome don't understand the issues about the uranium but I know the Russians now own it.
So.
One hundred bucks.
A "C" note.
Maybe more later.
3
Me too! I will support Senator Sanders as the Democratic candidate for President.
3
It looks like this is Democratic Party bosses answer to the complaints that Hillary had no opposition. If so, it's just shows the sad state of the Democratic Party. How about a full-throated run from Jerry Brown?
3
Bernie Sanders has my vote.
3
Bernie is an interesting guy. While claiming to be a socialist I haven't seem him actually run on a campaign of taking over private ownership of businesses. Rather he seems to be focused on income inequality, the alleviation of poverty in our rich country. Unfortunately he fails to understand that these problems come, not from a need for a better social safety net but from over population, too much "immigration" and a lack of pertinent education. By not attacking each of these directly even if elected the problems will remain. No better than Hillary if anyone can even understand what her platform is. No better than Biden the plagiarist who cannot be described as anything other than a clown.
Big Media and Big Money will now try to ignore or de-legitimize this candidate and if that doesn't work then they will try to crush him. Well, it's the last ride for democracy and common sense. America, you've saved yourself from corrupt power before and you can do it again, what is takes is grass roots support (both before and especially after elections) and a great leader. Here's to real hope and change from a real independent.
3
Ah yes, the righteous Senator Sanders who worked hard to set up the Texas-Vermont compact to send Vermont's radioactive waste to a poor community in West Texas. What a swell guy.
1
I Love Bernie Sanders! He is a hero amongst a maze of clowns running for President. He is a courageous man from Vermont who speaks his mind and is honest to the ideals of our nation. I'd call him a moderate if we were in the 1950's more along the ideas of Eisenhower. Today the field of politics is soooooo skewed to the right that the center has become the Social Democratic movement.
We need improvements to Social Security, our health system, education, and retirement with increases inthe minimum wage. We need to get of a sytem that no longer focuses on war, the military and corporate corruption. He is a man who speaks for you and me...the real people of the USA. Can you say that of the Republican candidates? Or...Hillary for that matter.
Bernie is a fresh voice in the field of politics which has been destroyed by a two party system that rarely allows an ordinary person to run for political office. Maybe, Hillary can listen and pay attention to his platform to make a difference in this race. Bernie simply speaks for all of us...ok, maybe not the Koch brothers.
Go Bernie!
We need improvements to Social Security, our health system, education, and retirement with increases inthe minimum wage. We need to get of a sytem that no longer focuses on war, the military and corporate corruption. He is a man who speaks for you and me...the real people of the USA. Can you say that of the Republican candidates? Or...Hillary for that matter.
Bernie is a fresh voice in the field of politics which has been destroyed by a two party system that rarely allows an ordinary person to run for political office. Maybe, Hillary can listen and pay attention to his platform to make a difference in this race. Bernie simply speaks for all of us...ok, maybe not the Koch brothers.
Go Bernie!
3
Senator Sanders has my enthusiastic vote. His is a campaign based on moral imperative, unlike Clinton's which is a campaign based on entitlement. I hope he can break this cycle of "money buys elections." He has my vote and i wish I could cast it today. Hang in there, Bernie! We're behind you!
3
Senator Sanders' entry into the race could be extremely valuable for the country and the process-depending, of course, on how the media presents Mr. Sanders, and what the media focus becomes. Will it be the story of what's right and just in terms of opportunity for the average American and income equality? Or, will he be subtly attacked and derided as too far left, or as a socialist?
In the by-line on the front page of the digital edition. the Times says he "will inject a leftist voice into the contest". Then, in the article, he is referred to as "injecting a progressive voice into the contest". So, which is it? Is he a LEFTIST (negative connotation), or is he a PROGRESSIVE VOICE?
People will need to demand a well rounded, healthy debate, and fight against the media tendency to follow the leader.
In the by-line on the front page of the digital edition. the Times says he "will inject a leftist voice into the contest". Then, in the article, he is referred to as "injecting a progressive voice into the contest". So, which is it? Is he a LEFTIST (negative connotation), or is he a PROGRESSIVE VOICE?
People will need to demand a well rounded, healthy debate, and fight against the media tendency to follow the leader.
3
Or, will he be subtly attacked and derided as too far left, or as a socialist?
-----------------------------------
Subtly? He is far left and he is a socialist. In his favor he admits that. As opposed to the socialist and far leftist in the WH.
-----------------------------------
Subtly? He is far left and he is a socialist. In his favor he admits that. As opposed to the socialist and far leftist in the WH.
Ralph Nader + Al Gore = George Bush
Bernie Sanders + Hillary Clinton = Jeb Bush? Ted Cruz? Scott Walker?
Be careful what you wish for.
Bernie Sanders + Hillary Clinton = Jeb Bush? Ted Cruz? Scott Walker?
Be careful what you wish for.
A proud Republican, I can actually tip my hat for Mr. Sanders given his general stand on dealing with the drug epidemic plaguing his State and North East for that matter. Though I doubt he has a change of winning the nomination, hope he exposes some of the topics/subject that seem to get so little press these days.
Steve
Steve
47
I had the honor of meeting Bernie in Iowa recently, and he is just as genuine and committed in person as his public persona would indicate. I very much anticipate a great debate, if Clinton is stupid enough to get on a stage with him. She can only lose in a face-to-face meeting, because Bernie makes her look as disingenuous as she actually is. I agree that keeping the White House democratic is goal #1, but Bernie deserves a real look.
4
What will happen is the corporate media will marginalize the Senator just as they did repeatedly with Congressman Dennis Kucinich. This also happened toJ Jerry Brown when he was on the verge of capturing the nomination in 1992, the corporate media jumped all over him allowing Gov Sleazebag from Arkansas to get the nomination. And again this happened to Gov Dean in 2004, the media pounced on his anti Iraq war stance allowing french fry loving flip flopper Kerry to run his disastrous campaign.
Yup it is all the nasty corporation and far-right media. It has nothing to do with the fact that Americans, by the millions, reject socialism and the far left instincts of those you mentioned.
Go Bernie Go! You have my vote! Too bad more politicians don't follow your lead, and actually provide a government by and for the people. We deserve at least that.
5
God bless him, and best of luck!
5
Yay! Christmas came early! A real, intelligent person willing to run? I love him, and am writing a check to his campaign today. With a younger VP choice, his age is no issue.
4
We need Bernie and other Democrats to get into the 2016 presidential race, especially now that Hillary is toast.
6
Bernie Sanders is about to get the Ron Paul treatment from the corporate mainstream media.
He simply doesn't spend enough time advocating for wars and verbally prostrating himself before Israel.
He simply doesn't spend enough time advocating for wars and verbally prostrating himself before Israel.
2
Thank you Bernie-you actually deserve the $100.00-so don't thank us...just continue to represent us instead of (bushBAMA-no change) Wall $treet destroyers of U.S. economy. If $$$$=speech, speech isn't free...
6
While I really like Mr. Sanders, he is not a viable candidate. The best he will be able to do is to focus enough on needed liberal ideas, forcing Ms. Clinton to adjust her platform more to the left.
Filling out my $100 check right now!
10
And send it to Red Cross for Nepal relief. That will be a wise and good use of your $100. Get it?
No, Sonny I don't get it.
But how about you give your $100 to the Red Cross or where ever you want, and I'll give my $100 to Bernie or where ever I want?
You get that?
But how about you give your $100 to the Red Cross or where ever you want, and I'll give my $100 to Bernie or where ever I want?
You get that?
I am disappointed to see your above-the-fold photo/coverage of Martin O'Malley who is only considering a run ... whereas Bernie Sanders announced he is running but is tucked off to one side. I expect Sanders will get the same kind of treatment by other major media, even though each candidate who has announced prior to this has been treated to top billings.
6
This is fantastic news. As a person of color, I am going to encourage my fellow POCs to hopefully relinquish a bit of their understandable cynicism about politics and mobilize to vote for Sanders. For once, a candidate that stands for the issues that affect ALL Americans, whether Democrat or Republican. I hope working-class Republicans and Independents can see how Sanders' Populist policies will benefit them too, and reject the candidates that don't speak for their interests at all.
But really, NY Times: "grumpy, grandfather-type"? Ridiculous. Try: hardworking, intelligent, principled, and outraged at the rampant corporatization of our society by the 1% in our country.
Sanders has my vote.
But really, NY Times: "grumpy, grandfather-type"? Ridiculous. Try: hardworking, intelligent, principled, and outraged at the rampant corporatization of our society by the 1% in our country.
Sanders has my vote.
19
I am very happy to learn this; his voice is important and I just made a small contribution to his fund a week or two ago.
7
Vermont is suffering from a heroin epidemic.
Maybe just maybe could its elected senator work to help these people rather than pretend to be Justin Beeber?
Maybe just maybe could its elected senator work to help these people rather than pretend to be Justin Beeber?
May I assume that this comment is a reflection of the poor scores students in South Carolina get on national and international tests in reading and math. What does this comment mean and how is it relevant to Senator Sanders declaration to run for president? And how does Justin Beeber get invoked. I doubt if Bernie Sanders even knows who Justin Beeber is. I barely know myself, perhaps because I spend too much time reading books and not enough watching Entertainment Weekly, or whatever its name. How did this comment even get passed into print?
Just when it looked like we were in for a long, bleak politcal season, dominated by the mostly empty, tired, and trite poltical rhetoric of Hillary, Jeb, Ted, and Rand, a tenuious shaft of spring sun light has appeared. Bernie Sanders, to a farther greater degree than the other presidential candidates, will speak truth to power, will address the issues that have for too long been ignored by the "front runners," will eloquently and with sincereity appeal to the better angels of our nature, imploring us to make our society more just and equitable. I can't think of what more I desire in a political candidate, whether he or she be running for the city council, state legislature, Congress, or President of the United States.
I conmend Senator Sanders for deciding to seek the Democratic nomination, especially since he must know full well that he faces a up hill fight. I am fully committed to doing whatever is within my power to assist Senator Sanders in his noble mission, be it a modest finanical contribution or going door to door canvassing for him, and I encourge others who up until now shuddered at the prospect of having to chose between the lesser of the two evils, to do the same.
I conmend Senator Sanders for deciding to seek the Democratic nomination, especially since he must know full well that he faces a up hill fight. I am fully committed to doing whatever is within my power to assist Senator Sanders in his noble mission, be it a modest finanical contribution or going door to door canvassing for him, and I encourge others who up until now shuddered at the prospect of having to chose between the lesser of the two evils, to do the same.
8
If the people are listening - and the people vote - Bernie just might make it!!
7
You are aware that the "people" you speak about, don't exist.
Please Bernie Sanders, win and break the oligarchy that is America today. What kind of democracy are we if two families run our country for 28 of the last 50 years? Are we really the land of opportunity or are we the land of the well-connected?
The conspiracy theorist in me thinks this is part of a bigger Clinton strategy. By having Bernie Sanders run, it'll make Hillary seem more moderate.
The conspiracy theorist in me thinks this is part of a bigger Clinton strategy. By having Bernie Sanders run, it'll make Hillary seem more moderate.
2
Go Bernie go! As Joe Biden would say, "God love ya!"
7
Thank God for at least an alternative. Sick of hearing continuous HRC spin. The republicans are a mess but the democrats are bankrupt. Admit it, she can win if the republicans do a "Sarah Palin" again.
3
Today was the first time in decades I've given money to a political candidate (the Carter Center gets a monthly pledge). It feels good, for once, to feel like paying attention to what a candidate for President has to say. Thank you, Bernie Sanders.
191
My first donation to a Presidential candidate since George McGovern. Doesn't it feel good to have hope again?
Sen. Sanders' voice very much needs to be heard in the forthcoming debate over our nations future. I just hope the people will be sufficiently engaged enough to listen to him.
7
Forthcoming debates? Thast is funny. The last presidential election had two. There should be at least 10 in the primaries and at least 10 in the geneal election. I won't hold my breath.
1
This is hilarious.
Al the good luck to Bernie imaginable. Is it possible that the Jebster can win ALL electoral votes?
Al the good luck to Bernie imaginable. Is it possible that the Jebster can win ALL electoral votes?
1
I'll be voting for Bernie Sanders, a brilliant, honest, hard-working public servant who happens to be right about the single most important issue facing this country and the world: the almost complete capture of democratic process by corporate interests. Without addressing this we can't begin to change our profoundly compromised justice system and the racism that powers it, the massive environmental crises we are facing and the horrors of an endless war machine that serves only the merchants of death. Spiraling income inequality and the marginalization and suffering it entails is a feature, not a bug in our corporatocracy -- Sen Sanders is focused on clearly articulating the causes and consequences of this corporate capture and has always acted as a public servant to attack it through thoughtful and effective legislation. No other presidential candidate has or will do this. That should be enough for every democrat to support him.
15
Thanks Bernie. At last a persuasive, reasonable, fact based Progressive voice to counter the constant propaganda that "lies" reality to Americans by fact of the omission of details or by the misrepresentation of those details.
I don't dislike Hillary, and prefer her to any of the apparent, or likely, Republican candidates, but what this nation's under and middle class needs isn't another member of the ruling class, which unfortunately also includes to many Democrat candidates.
We need Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren, or even a long-long shot Martin O'Malley.
jfm
I don't dislike Hillary, and prefer her to any of the apparent, or likely, Republican candidates, but what this nation's under and middle class needs isn't another member of the ruling class, which unfortunately also includes to many Democrat candidates.
We need Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren, or even a long-long shot Martin O'Malley.
jfm
9
Does anybody see the problem overall?
Hillary Clinton running unopposed takes away voter choice for Democrats. The idea is reminiscent of the student protests this past fall when China, via Hong Kong officials, decided that they would choose the candidates for the people and then allow the people to vote based on the government chosen candidates.
Of course, others can choose to enter the 'arena', however, the power machines have seen to it that Hillary will win the nomination. Even so, there ought to be more candidates for the American voter.
Also, one Democrat running, to this point, can be eliminated if the media/public finds evidence of wrong doing of some sort. Then, it only leaves the Republican candidate.
Hillary Clinton running unopposed takes away voter choice for Democrats. The idea is reminiscent of the student protests this past fall when China, via Hong Kong officials, decided that they would choose the candidates for the people and then allow the people to vote based on the government chosen candidates.
Of course, others can choose to enter the 'arena', however, the power machines have seen to it that Hillary will win the nomination. Even so, there ought to be more candidates for the American voter.
Also, one Democrat running, to this point, can be eliminated if the media/public finds evidence of wrong doing of some sort. Then, it only leaves the Republican candidate.
2
Ah! this elections spoiler...finally!
1
He's not going to run in a third party, so he's not a spoiler. The question is which candidate would be more susceptible to the $900 million Republican smear job.
1
You can't be a spoiler running as a Democrat. "Fruited" you are indeed, Sir.
1
I think that the Democrats will be surprised at how much support there is for Sanders.
I'm old and not rich, but I'll peel off at least as much money as I did for Obama. I gave money to Obama out of fear of his opponents. I'll give money to Sanders out of hope for real change.
And if Hilary gets the nomination anyway, I hope that she is wise enough to "triangulate" her policiies to give an energized block of pro-society voters equal weight with the corporatists and Richistanians. To paraphrase FDR, we'll get the actions we want out of her if we make her do them.
I'm old and not rich, but I'll peel off at least as much money as I did for Obama. I gave money to Obama out of fear of his opponents. I'll give money to Sanders out of hope for real change.
And if Hilary gets the nomination anyway, I hope that she is wise enough to "triangulate" her policiies to give an energized block of pro-society voters equal weight with the corporatists and Richistanians. To paraphrase FDR, we'll get the actions we want out of her if we make her do them.
20
After the debacle that is the obama failed presidency, the country is in no mood - at least the rational parts, not the die-hard NYT reader drones - for another leftwing president.
This will be similar to the landslide in 1980 with Reagan rescuing the country from the lunatic, failed policies of jimmy carter. As long as the republicans provide a decent candidate, 2016 will be a train wreck for any democratic candidate - unless of course, the democrat criminals succeed in getting many of their illegal alien friends obama allowed to stream across the border to vote for them.
This will be similar to the landslide in 1980 with Reagan rescuing the country from the lunatic, failed policies of jimmy carter. As long as the republicans provide a decent candidate, 2016 will be a train wreck for any democratic candidate - unless of course, the democrat criminals succeed in getting many of their illegal alien friends obama allowed to stream across the border to vote for them.
2
"Whom the Gods seek to destroy, they first make mad."
2
"There is none so blind as he who will not see."
2
I see Bernie as the perfect candidate for Presidency. I believe him being able to win as being dependent on the other 70% of the population that didn't vote last time to actually come out and vote. In other words, the people of this country would have to become as passionate about their own lives as Bernie is about thier lives and this country. It would take the people rising up to overcome the super rich who wish only to control their lives. Saying that, history shows us that money and power have always tried to influence or take over this country. Our forefathers warned us of this over and over through out time. Bermie would have to navigate the same polluted waters that Obama has had to navigate. The people would have to put into office support throughout congress and at the state levels for Bernie or for that matter anyother mid to left leaning candidates to be truly effective.
2
Poor Bernie is on his own. There is no progressive voice in the US.
“I think people should be a little bit careful underestimating me,” Sanders said.
10
But there's a lot of progressive yearning in the US.
Go, Bernie!
Go, Bernie!
2
Maybe this doesn't sound plausible, but for the reason that the wholesale ownership of Washington has gotten so bad that people are actually becoming aware of it - perhaps Sanders will strike a chord with a wider swath than expected.
The explosive thing about Sanders is that he believes we should actually care for and look out for each other. Now that is radical.
The explosive thing about Sanders is that he believes we should actually care for and look out for each other. Now that is radical.
18
It's difficult to top the energy and enthusiasm being expressed in most of today's readers' comments about Senator Sanders announcement to run for president. But I'll give it my best shot. In all the year's that I've been voting - starting with the 1960 presidential election - I have never felt as sad about the state of our nation as I have during the past few years. I voted for change in 2008 and again in 2012 and I'm going to do it again in 2016. And I'll keep doing it until we get it right. Whenever a man or woman of integrity steps forward, I'm going to put my money and my vote in their direction. And to those who feel it is naive and a waste of time to vote for a supposed underdog, I would like to add a quote from William Faulkner, one of our great American writers. It is this: Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice, lying and greed. If people all over the world would do this, it would change the earth."
9
Didn't anyone tell poor Bernie that the NYT has already nominated Hillary as the Democratic presidential candidate? If that weren't bad enough, he doesn't have a celebrity spouse who's a former president, or a "foundation" raising millions from Saudis and Russians to help buy air time. I'll bet Bernie's Senate e-mails haven't been selectively deleted either; who knows what we'll find there. Still, best of luck!
7
"Didn't anyone tell poor Bernie that the NYT has already nominated Hillary as the Democratic presidential candidate?"
For an organization that has already nominated Hillary, the Times sure does run a lot of editorials and articles critical of her. Have you read any of Maureen Dowd's columns?
For an organization that has already nominated Hillary, the Times sure does run a lot of editorials and articles critical of her. Have you read any of Maureen Dowd's columns?
2
Everything good will come from this for the 2016 race. Bernie's candidacy will utterly move the national dialogue to the left and inspire a new generation of activist progressives. Those who support Bernie must do all we can to make sure his voice is heard by voters, which will in turn make it heard by Hillary.
7
The best candidate since President Bartlett...Go Bernie!
6
Bernie Sanders would make a great president. Unfortunately, the America electorate is too ignorant, too full of hate and anger and too apathetic to support him. What a sad state of affairs we now have in our once great country. All power now derives from greed and wealth, lies and propaganda. Shame on all of us for letting our nation wither and die. We are destroying our children's future.
7
I love Bernie Sanders and eagerly anticipate any debates with Hilary, hopefully he will force her to adjusted the narrative to the left not that I would believe anything Hilary says anyway she's in it for the power and money just as Bill was, and just as likely to drag us into a war with Iran or Russia as McConnell or any of Adelsons other schleppers. Elizabeth Warren is the woman who should be in the race and she is has the better chance of winning as she would neutralize Hilarys advantage with the female voters: The dream ticket would be Warren for President with Bernie as V.P. both of whom have the credibility, honesty and intelligence to perhaps turn this country around, I only wish I knew what it would take to neutralize Adelson, Schumer and the wall street boys short of a purge; but we can always dream, speak out and most importantly hope that voters pay attention to the topics and not the thirty second sound bites and lies we are about to be bombarded with for the next two years.
6
Thanks for running Bernie! I love your views and your populist message. I need to write you a check!
22
@Doug - do it, I did.
2
Fascinating factoid: Bernie Sanders is a graduate of the finest public high school in American: James Madison High School in Brooklyn, NY. Why the greatest? No other public high school, in the history of the republic (according to my research) has ever produced three concurrently seated US Senators and a seated US Supreme Court Justice: Bernie Sanders, Charles Schumer, Norm Coleman (until Al Franken won his seat) and the notorious RBG herself, Ruth Bader Ginsberg. All graduated in a different decade, by the way, so the excellence was sustained.
You could look it up.
Also shows what public education is/was capable of doing when given the resources, support and respect it needs.
You could look it up.
Also shows what public education is/was capable of doing when given the resources, support and respect it needs.
14
I would never vote for Bernie Sanders, but I am very glad someone else got in the race on the Democrat side and wish him luck. There needs to be an actual primary not a coronation of Hillary Clinton.
2
I like Bernie, I vote for Bernie, but the folks in Texas like and vote for Ted Cruz too but neither should be President.
A note to Bernie: don't bother - you're wasting time and money.
Elizabeth Warren has been sidelined by her own party - so she won't take the newly minted, bogus progressive "wind" out of the Hillary Brand®'s populist sails. Bernie is now being thrown to the wolves (aka clueless voters) to be sacrificed as the token alternative to the Brand® and will go down to a preordained defeat. His goal to force Hillary to address the ills of the country (that she so "eloquently expressed" a passion to redress the other day after the Baltimore riots) will be for naught.
Hillary has already co-opted Warrens' progressive message and tested the meme for voter reaction - and they love it, cooing all the way to the bank to donate to her campaign. The Brand® will mouth the populist platitudes and argue for equality (ignore my fortune); reign in Wall Street (who will quiver over her phony threats); balancing a strong defense with a more compassionate foreign interventionist (drone) program (apologize first, then obliterate the innocent); return jobs to America (make sure wages are so low they won't bankrupt her corporate money lenders); bring communities and the police together (for handshakes, pancake breakfasts, and Taser-Tuesdays); and play up the "first female presidential candidate" theme that her followers are lapping up like candy.
The absurdity of it all seems to be lost to most everyone, and Sanders must know it - but is only following orders. After all, the charade must go on.
Elizabeth Warren has been sidelined by her own party - so she won't take the newly minted, bogus progressive "wind" out of the Hillary Brand®'s populist sails. Bernie is now being thrown to the wolves (aka clueless voters) to be sacrificed as the token alternative to the Brand® and will go down to a preordained defeat. His goal to force Hillary to address the ills of the country (that she so "eloquently expressed" a passion to redress the other day after the Baltimore riots) will be for naught.
Hillary has already co-opted Warrens' progressive message and tested the meme for voter reaction - and they love it, cooing all the way to the bank to donate to her campaign. The Brand® will mouth the populist platitudes and argue for equality (ignore my fortune); reign in Wall Street (who will quiver over her phony threats); balancing a strong defense with a more compassionate foreign interventionist (drone) program (apologize first, then obliterate the innocent); return jobs to America (make sure wages are so low they won't bankrupt her corporate money lenders); bring communities and the police together (for handshakes, pancake breakfasts, and Taser-Tuesdays); and play up the "first female presidential candidate" theme that her followers are lapping up like candy.
The absurdity of it all seems to be lost to most everyone, and Sanders must know it - but is only following orders. After all, the charade must go on.
1
Well, how do you think all the Venezuelans cringing in fear from rampant crime and food and produce shortages feel now after having been sold progressive socialist kool-aid that was supposed to cure all the ills of capitalism? First with Hugo Chavez and now that joke Nicolás Maduro?
All of this is fine @Johndrake07 as long as no one from the Greed, Oil and Pollution party is elected.
1
I am really excited about Mr. Sanders running on the Democrat ticket. If he were to run as an independent, he would either be swept away or become a spoiler candidate. I hope by becoming a Democrat candidate, Mr. Sanders would help to re-align the party and force other Democrats to focus on the key issues.
12
Hillary was a Young Republican at Wellesley who has never been out of the bubble. Since the Republican field is toxic I will hold my nose and vote for HRC if she is nominated.
3
This should be interesting. I think that Sanders can push the debate to where it needs to be at this point in America. We need to hear someone who is not in thrall to big money, who understands what is happening in America, and who is not afraid to speak out about it. All the GOP does is throw out accusations in the hope that one of them sticks but they don't offer realistic solutions. They bash everyone and everything. I hope that Clinton and Sanders have a debate so we can see who would be the best candidate to nominate. Of course that doesn't guarantee a win but I'm tired of the drumbeat of Clinton, Clinton, Clinton.
7
“This is not going to be, ‘I’ll give you two questions and see you later,’” the adviser said, in an apparent reference to Mrs. Clinton’s campaign style.
Senator Sanders will bering a much needed presence focusing on significant issues of economics and equity in America.
Thanks to Senator Sanders for speaking out, asking much needed questions and standing up for the Democratic primary and pledging to keepi a positive tone
I very much, look forward to the debates to come.
Senator Sanders will bering a much needed presence focusing on significant issues of economics and equity in America.
Thanks to Senator Sanders for speaking out, asking much needed questions and standing up for the Democratic primary and pledging to keepi a positive tone
I very much, look forward to the debates to come.
22
Hurrah! A straight-talker who understands the issues and isn't afraid to put it out there. Long admired by me! Go Bernie.
31
Clearly, the race for the presidency comes down to who can raise the most money, and Hillary will win that contest. But the presence of Bernie Sanders into the race ensures some illumination of issues near and dear to those of us on the left: Addressing the huge income disparity, our military's perpetual occupation abroad, the application of justice in this country and the unacceptable reality of just how difficult life is for so many in the richest country on earth. Run, Bernie, run!
41
Great news! Bernie has always spoken truth to power. Hillary will finally see and feel what it's like to run against someone who actually believes in what he stand for. Finally, I can vote for someone without having to hold my nose.
2
The race only comes down to money if you as a voter accept that as the metric to judge a candidate. The only upside of Citizens United is that it has drawn attention to how money drives elections. With that awareness, we must choose to "look under the hood" of a candidate's campaign and examine the source of the their money and how those donors have/have not shaped the candidate's message. I do not accept that we have to vote for the candidate with the biggest war chest.
I've already sent (VP?) Bernie my $100.00 if for nothing else than there will now be primary debates that won't have me ripping my hair out while screaming in a primal rage.
54
Made my day! I won't be made to think that I'm spoiling the election by throwing my support behind the best candidate, in this case Bernie Sanders. Compromising our values to ensure HRC, the lesser evil from the GOP, is never going to bring about the honest policy debates and hard choices that we as a country need to make. I now look forward to the campaign speeches and debates, whereas before this announcement the thought of them made me sick.
31
And help elect a Republican and give that Republican five, count them, five nominations to the Supreme Court. Only fools would risk that. No one else but a fool takes that risk.
Why on Earth do you think that "I won't be made to think that I'm spoiling the election by throwing my support behind the best candidate" ? Who would try to make you think that, the anti-democratic Dem Party? Can't think for your self? Don't believe that "one Man (woman) one vote" is not spoiling the election?
Boy, the Dems really have their hooks into you. But not me, no vote for HRC no matter who wins the Repub nomination. So the Dems better nominate someone worthy. I'd vote for Bernie.
Boy, the Dems really have their hooks into you. But not me, no vote for HRC no matter who wins the Repub nomination. So the Dems better nominate someone worthy. I'd vote for Bernie.
I am glad Bernie Sanders is running. I know from my own experience that he stood up for thousands of IBM employees in USA during the massive layoffs in the 1990s. He will be a breath of fresh air during the primary season where instead of bland statements about standing up for "everyday Americans", he will actually force attention to the gross inequality between the wealthy and working people. In addition, he will bring to focus the on the endless Corporate welfare which gives handouts to billionaires, and crumbs to the struggling middle-class.
36
Go Bernie!
30
Never again will I vote for a Republican in sheep's clothing, so Hilary is not ever going to get my vote.Clinton's positions are aligned with interests that are against a livable planet, a fair society and a common sense economic policies.
I have never sat out an election but if Clinton is the ticket expect me and thousands of other middle age, middle class women to do so. I want the Democratic Party back from Wall Street and the Republicians.
I have never sat out an election but if Clinton is the ticket expect me and thousands of other middle age, middle class women to do so. I want the Democratic Party back from Wall Street and the Republicians.
31
Then @heather, you will get what you deserve. What a stupid thing to do, it's just like voting against your own best interests. People not voting is why we have the Greed, Oil and Pollution party running (or should I say crashing) the house and senate (all for your benefit, no doubt). Go ahead and cut off your nose to spite your face.
I like Senator Sanders, but this country is not ready for a Socialist president.
2
If Sanders gets the chance to explain how Socialism can help middle class families, the country may come around.
Like you mean the country was not ready for a Black President either? Bernie makes too much sense, is that scary to you?
Why not? Mitt Romney and his ilk have benefited from socialism-at-the-top for decades. I'm sure your tax rate is well above that of Mitt and his fellow republicans, but somehow this isn't "socialism for the rich?"
Vote for "socialism for all."
Vote for "socialism for all."
I like Bernie. Most of what he proposes as a socialist is long-discredited tommyrot but he's smart, genuine, and serious, not to mention honest and free of personal and political scandal, no small collection of virtues among today's politicians. A Brooklyn kid (!), Bernie actually put his body on the line in the civil rights movement, so you know he means what he says. Of course, one wishes he had got over all that "public ownership of the means of production" nonsense as he grew older, but still the old guy deserves a real hearing -- a lot more than empty suits like Warren and O'Malley.
6
Regulating the big banks has NOT been discredited.
Leading the world to stop global warming has NOT been discredited.
Re-investing in domestic infrastructure has NOT been discredited.
Raising the minimum wage has NOT been discredited.
Leading the world to stop global warming has NOT been discredited.
Re-investing in domestic infrastructure has NOT been discredited.
Raising the minimum wage has NOT been discredited.
1
I have never heard Senator Sanders advocate, in any fashion, "public ownership of the means of production." If he ever did, I doubt he'd have so many longtime supporters. Universal health care, expanded Social Security, and a liveable minimum wage have nothing to do with seizing control of the means of production. Don't be blinded by dictionary definitions, John Burke. 21st-century democracy is infinitely more complex and nuanced than 19th century philosophers could have imagined.
1
Instead of using words like tommyrot, why don't you describe in detail what it is that has been long-discredited. You can't but the challenge is out there, so please deliver. Every time I see one of your posts I think you should change your sign in to "John Birch."
1
I think he's too far left for many moderate Democrats. There are those of us who support a social safety net and liberal views on social issues, but understand the need for a personal initiative, a strong business sector, work automation and free trade approaches.
5
I look forward to the NYT giving him the Ron Paul treatment [remember Mr Sanders to speak unceasingly of Israel, of its unique and perfect goodness, and of the deep responsibility Irish, and Chinese, and Indian young men and women have to defend Israel from the people Israel is currently oppressing].
4
Finally, in Bernie Sanders we have an honest politician who cares more about what the country needs than what his ego needs. How rare is that. He has my vote and the few dollars I set aside for campaign contributions.
31
The only reason he would do this is to feed his ego.
Bernie Sanders is the breath of fresh air needed in this fetid arena of politics. Sent my donation by internet this morning with understanding that every penny counts in times when billionaires hide behind citizens united to destroy democratic processes in America. Democratic Socialist for Social Democracy, absolutely !
17
I wish Bernie well and would vote for him in a primary, but unless he has enormously long coattails (and a very effective truth squad), he'll be stuck with the same Republican obstructionists in Congress who will scare the populace and pillory him for being a "radical socialist."
5
For the first time in my life, I think I will actually send a politician some of my hard earned money!
29
A note to Bernie: don't bother - you're wasting time and money.
Elizabeth Warren has been sidelined by her own party - so she won't take the newly minted, bogus progressive "wind" out of the Hillary Brand®'s populist sails.
Bernie is now being thrown to the wolves (aka clueless voters) to be sacrificed as the token alternative to the Brand® and will go down to a preordained defeat. His goal to force Hillary to address the ills of the country (that she so "eloquently expressed" a passion to redress the other day after the Baltimore riots) will be for naught.
Hillary has already co-opted Warrens' progressive message and tested the meme for voter reaction - and they love it, cooing all the way to the bank to donate to her campaign. The Brand® will mouth the populist platitudes and argue for equality (ignore my fortune); reign in Wall Street (who will quiver over her phony threats); balancing a strong defense with a more compassionate foreign interventionist (drone) program (apologize first, then obliterate the innocent); return jobs to America (make sure wages are so low they won't bankrupt her corporate money lenders); bring communities and the police together (for handshakes, pancake breakfasts, and Taser-Tuesdays); and play up the "first female presidential candidate" theme that her followers are lapping up like candy.
The absurdity of it all seems to be lost to most everyone, and Sanders must know it - but is only following orders. After all, the charade must go on.
Elizabeth Warren has been sidelined by her own party - so she won't take the newly minted, bogus progressive "wind" out of the Hillary Brand®'s populist sails.
Bernie is now being thrown to the wolves (aka clueless voters) to be sacrificed as the token alternative to the Brand® and will go down to a preordained defeat. His goal to force Hillary to address the ills of the country (that she so "eloquently expressed" a passion to redress the other day after the Baltimore riots) will be for naught.
Hillary has already co-opted Warrens' progressive message and tested the meme for voter reaction - and they love it, cooing all the way to the bank to donate to her campaign. The Brand® will mouth the populist platitudes and argue for equality (ignore my fortune); reign in Wall Street (who will quiver over her phony threats); balancing a strong defense with a more compassionate foreign interventionist (drone) program (apologize first, then obliterate the innocent); return jobs to America (make sure wages are so low they won't bankrupt her corporate money lenders); bring communities and the police together (for handshakes, pancake breakfasts, and Taser-Tuesdays); and play up the "first female presidential candidate" theme that her followers are lapping up like candy.
The absurdity of it all seems to be lost to most everyone, and Sanders must know it - but is only following orders. After all, the charade must go on.
3
On some level, I'm sure you're right about the intentions to side line Bernie Sanders. And maybe it will be so.
But in the meanwhile, there are many of us who recognize the newly populist Hillary Clinton as someone who will say anything to win.
But in the meanwhile, there are many of us who recognize the newly populist Hillary Clinton as someone who will say anything to win.
4
Exactly what I am saying, Siobhan. The Brand® (aka Hillary) will say anything to get the votes but do little to rectify any of the problems Americans are facing.
I love Bernie Sanders and have always wondered why he didn't run for President. What great news this is. He has my vote, for sure! I'm glad he's running as a Democrat but I would vote for him as an Independent. Thank you, Bernie!!!!
14
Too bad thta sometimes the best man cannot be elected. It's had for a liberal not to love Bernie and to agree with his analysis of most issues, so we just have to hope that Mrs. Clinton (also unelectable ) can at least endorse some of his ideas. In the end we are likely to get another corporate Republican ,
Bernie will get us talking and, if we're lucky, he might get us thinking...and acting.
1
Remember Ralph Nader. There's politics and there's reality. Senator Sander's intentions might be as noble as his ideas but the reality is that his candidacy, if it gains any traction, will almost assure that one of the GOP contenders will secure the Presidency. Despite her many flaws, Secretary Clinton is head and shoulders above the GOP folk in her ideas and policies, and a Sander's run can only diminish Ms. Clinton's chances of winning the Presidency. Let's get real this time!
4
I think you forget that Ralph Nader ran as in Independent.
1
Bernie isn't running as an independent that would appear alongside a Democrat on the final ballot. He won't make it past the nomination round and won't steal one vote from Clinton in the general election.
Clinton is Republican-light. I will not vote for Republican-light.
I consider Bernie Sanders a normal, straight forward thinking, middle of the road person (he would have been called that way in the old days). If anything, he is akin to a classical old-European style Social Democrat.
25
Agreed, 90/60mm Hg.
Bernie Sanders is honest and tells the truth. No one can say that about Mrs. Clinton.
28
What's best about Bernie Sanders is that the man is very straight forward and honest about a whole range of isssues that impact the average "Joe" and "Jill" American. His track record of beating Democrat and Republican alike can be attributed to his unwillingness to let money or political trends in the Democratic party push him to not represent the interests of citizens he represents. That's why Vermont voters have elected time and time again. Bernie Sanders will push Hilary Rodham Clinton to take more aggressive stands on income inequality, needless foreign invasions, the environment, immigration reform, tax loopholes, and investing here instead of overseas. He likely won't win the Democratic nomination, but his common sense and passionate logic will get Hillary to take a clear more left leaning stand which is long overdue.
14
Our last "grandfather-type" president, Ronald Reagan, was a grade-B, Army propaganda-film trained fraud, and we have paid a huge price for his presidency. Reagan did care care a whit for the middle class or unions. I've already decided that I could not vote for any of the GOP candidates and I can't vote for Hillary. Bernie gives us an opportunity to begin moving forward again--if he could get adequate support from congressional Democrats. There is so much that needs to be done and undone after 35 years of politics and economics dominated by conservatives. Bernie might just the person to make these changes.
19
Bernie, please stay true to your party and run as an Independent. I remember how Ross Perot siphoned off enough votes from Bush 1 to allow Bill Clinton to win with only 43% of the popular vote. Run, Bernie Run!... as an Independent!
3
Pete, you seem to have forgotten a fellow by the name of Ralph Nader. Nobody who voted for Ross Perot will be interested in voting for Bernie Sanders. He'll be siphoning votes from the Democrats as an independent... we all know how that turned out.
Susan, my point exactly... I want the fresh young Hispanic to win, so an independent like Bernie is just what he'll need to drain support from Grandma 1%....
"Mr. Sanders’s bid is considered a longshot ... "
___________
If the press refuses to cover him, as it seems to do to for other candidates and issues, that becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
___________
If the press refuses to cover him, as it seems to do to for other candidates and issues, that becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
19
As this (temporarily displaced) Vermonter and all 630,000 of us will avow: you can love or loathe his politics, but Bernie Sanders is a genuine public servant and a nonsense-free zone. Less well known outside VT is his zealous personal commitment to constituent services, and making government work for citizens. He makes former NY Senator Al "Senator Pothole" D'Amato look like a complete slacker. And he's going to make HRC a b s o l u t e l y m i s e r a b l e in the primary. She may prevail but the US will be better off for the process. Get 'em, Bernie!
27
Just donated to his campaign, now I just need to get me a Bernie 2016 sticker :)
16
Hot dog, a radical socialist is in the race. It will be fun watching Sanders debate Hillary as they try to outdo each other for the far left wing of the Democrat party. We can only hope that Elizabeth Warren jumps into the race to make it a real three ring circus of panderers. Thank you Bernie Sanders, you have made our day for a lot of Republicans and conservatives.
1
And conservative republicans never pander?
1
Paul, socialist is, arguably, an apt label for Senator Sanders, but radical he ain't-he's just looking for normal equality. But don't get your hopes too high just yet, because the Dem's infighting will be nothing compared to the "we'll need a circular firing squad" mentality of the Republicans.
1
I can hardly wait for one of the many Republican candidates to let slip that "of course" he'd have to keep the nuclear option on the table when dealing with big-city rioters. Why else did the Republicans push all that military weaponry onto the nation's local communities, if not to use it?
Democrats distributed cheese, Republicans distributed weapons. Take your pick.
Democrats distributed cheese, Republicans distributed weapons. Take your pick.
1
I'm a libertarian, an certainly don't agree with Mr. Sanders on everything - more the 'how do you get there' versus the goals per se, but he is far and away the best candidate in the field.
He should be taken very seriously by libertarians, progressives, classical liberals, and paleoconservatives.
That just might be a majority.
And if he doesn't get the Dem nomination, he should run as a 3rd party candidate.
End the duopoly
End the Fed.
He should be taken very seriously by libertarians, progressives, classical liberals, and paleoconservatives.
That just might be a majority.
And if he doesn't get the Dem nomination, he should run as a 3rd party candidate.
End the duopoly
End the Fed.
7
Sure, have him run as a 3rd party candidate in the general election. Elect another Bush. Start another endless war or two. Sounds great.
1
Hillary is not bad but seems compromised by big money and political baggage. Bernie speaks the truth and our county needs more of that. Go Bernie.
10
Bernie Sanders is the only politician in Washington who represents a way forward for America. He is not a "socaliast" but "social democrat." That is, he would like to model the US on the way things are done in Europe or in Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
There, private enterprise pursues its interests in profits and yet more profits, and government acts as a watchdog on the public's behalf. People get very rich indeed, but they do not reach the obscene heights of the current US aristocracy. Corporations are closely regulated in matters of the environment, labor conditions and pay, and safety. The rich and corporations pay their fair share of the tax burden.
As a result, these countries can provide universal healthcare, advanced infrastructure, child support, educational opportunities, and social welfare for all so that scenes like you encounter on a drive through rural West Virginia are unthinkable in places like Germany or Britain or Denmark (or Canada). These countries are "democratic" (in that governments are elected) and "social" (in that they look after each other).
Is that really a "radical" vision for America? Is it really that threatening? Is it so awful a prospect that we'd rather adhere to our current path of environmental degradation, rotting infrastructure, and feudal inequality?
I hope Sanders pushes the whole corporate-Wall-Street-DC behemoth, or at least the Democratic limb of it, to the left.
We need real change. Sanders can deliver it.
There, private enterprise pursues its interests in profits and yet more profits, and government acts as a watchdog on the public's behalf. People get very rich indeed, but they do not reach the obscene heights of the current US aristocracy. Corporations are closely regulated in matters of the environment, labor conditions and pay, and safety. The rich and corporations pay their fair share of the tax burden.
As a result, these countries can provide universal healthcare, advanced infrastructure, child support, educational opportunities, and social welfare for all so that scenes like you encounter on a drive through rural West Virginia are unthinkable in places like Germany or Britain or Denmark (or Canada). These countries are "democratic" (in that governments are elected) and "social" (in that they look after each other).
Is that really a "radical" vision for America? Is it really that threatening? Is it so awful a prospect that we'd rather adhere to our current path of environmental degradation, rotting infrastructure, and feudal inequality?
I hope Sanders pushes the whole corporate-Wall-Street-DC behemoth, or at least the Democratic limb of it, to the left.
We need real change. Sanders can deliver it.
24
Now let's only hope he wins the primary! Then the Repubs will be able to run against a certifiable nut.
1
How many times has Bernie Sanders stood up and made the speech a lot of people should have made, but no one else did?
Want an extraordinary ticket? Sanders and Warren
Bernie Sanders for 2016
Want an extraordinary ticket? Sanders and Warren
Bernie Sanders for 2016
18
Go, Bern-man, go!
13
Do the names ralph nader, or michael dukaukis ring a bell?
On the left a plutarch who owes her soul to wall street and clinton foundation purchasers, and on the right a clown posse directed by gazillionaires
Instead of the I voted stickers, they will be giving out airplane bags with the same logo.
On the left a plutarch who owes her soul to wall street and clinton foundation purchasers, and on the right a clown posse directed by gazillionaires
Instead of the I voted stickers, they will be giving out airplane bags with the same logo.
1
Just when I was giving up on the US POTUS election system (there are no legitimate candidates running only people that are owned by various lobbies, eg. AIPAC) a beacon appears on the horizon. Run Bernie run.
33
Everybody "knows" that HRC has the nomination wrapped up, right? Bernie Saunders is relevant only insofar as he makes her look good, right? I mean, he says "socialist" without blushing! That's like endorsing gay marriage...or something! Born in Brooklyn and moved to Vermont--political suicide for sure! Not beholden to Wall St. Obviously his role is just to make Ms Inevitable look all the more inevitable, right?
Maybe not. One poll in March (CBS) found HRC had a 26% favorable, 37% unfavorable rating (19% undecided, 17% claiming "not enough info). A CNN poll in mid-March gave Ms Clinton 53% favorable vs 44% unfavorable, down from 59%-38% favorable three months earlier. HRC has a long history, more coming to light every day. First the missing emails, now the emerging uranium-for-Russia ("welfare for the dead broke") story the NYT this very day.
I've liked Bernie Saunders for years as someone who said what he thought about Vietnam, for instance, instead of asking his pollster what he ought to think. If he seems too old for some (six whole years older than Hillary!) there's another contender, Jim Webb of Virginia: candid, slightly pugilistic, Vietnam veteran, who appeals to the very Republican voters who ought to be at the core of the Democratic Party--the struggling white working class.
Hillary was "inevitable" eight years ago, too; all the pundits said so. But outside the cocoon of "insider" politics so ably reported by the Times, the world looks different. It ain't over yet.
Maybe not. One poll in March (CBS) found HRC had a 26% favorable, 37% unfavorable rating (19% undecided, 17% claiming "not enough info). A CNN poll in mid-March gave Ms Clinton 53% favorable vs 44% unfavorable, down from 59%-38% favorable three months earlier. HRC has a long history, more coming to light every day. First the missing emails, now the emerging uranium-for-Russia ("welfare for the dead broke") story the NYT this very day.
I've liked Bernie Saunders for years as someone who said what he thought about Vietnam, for instance, instead of asking his pollster what he ought to think. If he seems too old for some (six whole years older than Hillary!) there's another contender, Jim Webb of Virginia: candid, slightly pugilistic, Vietnam veteran, who appeals to the very Republican voters who ought to be at the core of the Democratic Party--the struggling white working class.
Hillary was "inevitable" eight years ago, too; all the pundits said so. But outside the cocoon of "insider" politics so ably reported by the Times, the world looks different. It ain't over yet.
25
Pardon me for being a realist: What is the point of this?
Sanders cannot win. The multiplicity of individuals who came together to elect a young biracial man to the Presidency will not do the same for a New York Jewish guy who managed to get elected in Vermont, whose culture is not his but whose political views mostly are.
As for his candidacy pushing Hillary to the left: talk is cheap, and Hillary will say anything necessary to get elected. You know, like Barack Obama did. I'm still waiting for the end of the war Obama didn't vote for...
Most of Bernie Sanders' positions represent my interests--except one of the most important ones for our children's future--rational relations with Israel. Even the vaunted liberal defender of human rights and ethical values could not condemn the slaughter in Gaza. If Bernie Sanders, too, is afraid of AIPAC's shadow, than he's not the man he says he is.
Save your $10s and $100s, folks. Give them to charity instead. This is fine for "imagine if..." but does not give us a viable way of moving the US out of the dark ages. Y'all know it's true. Sorry.
Sanders cannot win. The multiplicity of individuals who came together to elect a young biracial man to the Presidency will not do the same for a New York Jewish guy who managed to get elected in Vermont, whose culture is not his but whose political views mostly are.
As for his candidacy pushing Hillary to the left: talk is cheap, and Hillary will say anything necessary to get elected. You know, like Barack Obama did. I'm still waiting for the end of the war Obama didn't vote for...
Most of Bernie Sanders' positions represent my interests--except one of the most important ones for our children's future--rational relations with Israel. Even the vaunted liberal defender of human rights and ethical values could not condemn the slaughter in Gaza. If Bernie Sanders, too, is afraid of AIPAC's shadow, than he's not the man he says he is.
Save your $10s and $100s, folks. Give them to charity instead. This is fine for "imagine if..." but does not give us a viable way of moving the US out of the dark ages. Y'all know it's true. Sorry.
1
And I guess they said pretty much the same thing about Eugene McCarthy in 1968, and as I recall he still played an important role in the election.
1
I'm already signed up as a monthly donor, and I'm not even a Democrat. What a bright ray of sunshine into the dank pit of American politics!
20
All in all, it could well be positive for Clinton. Having someone to her left will provide her with some credibility as a centrist.
1
A man that doesn't have millionaire of billionaire friends? Hell, he's got my vote.
34
O'Malley, a former governor, young, good looking, on the moderate side of the Left, would present a far more viable alternative to Clinton. Despite Sanders maintaining his altruistic bona fides, I see this as a pure ego trip, as he has no chance of getting enough primary votes in any state, including his own & N.H., to get any delegates to the convention.
Ron Paul redux.
Ron Paul redux.
2
At least Sanders is devoid of the elder Paul's bombast.
The point I feel you are missing is that Senator Sanders, running as a democrat, will have the platform in the debates that will force Ms Clinton to address certain issues she obviously would prefer to avoid. Don't you see that campaign abuse, from gerrymandering to PAC's, is taking 'one person - one vote' out of our political process?
I don't believe Senator Sanders expects to be nominated. But I do expect he will do everything possible to bring out in the open many of the fundamental reasons our country is in such dire straights. Americans desperately need someone willing to stand up and tell the truth - I believe that Bernie Sanders will do that.
I don't believe Senator Sanders expects to be nominated. But I do expect he will do everything possible to bring out in the open many of the fundamental reasons our country is in such dire straights. Americans desperately need someone willing to stand up and tell the truth - I believe that Bernie Sanders will do that.
2
@sweinsIt254: Not an ego trip but a platform of ideas and policies that Clinton will have to answer. O'Malley realizes that he has less of chance than Saunders and that this is not his year. And by the way, aside from his policies, does the fact that he televises well our criteria? Let's not just crown Clinton; let's get some ideas out that differ from the republican bench that is running.
They wrote off Jimmy Carter too. Yes, I know he wasn't the greatest, but miracles do happen.
8
Here is that rarest of all American political species - an honest, uncompromising politician who can't be bought. To those of you have lost faith in our democratic process because the Republicans and Democrats sound the same - here is the answer to your hope that democracy can be wrested out of the greedy hands of the rich to whom the bulk of our politicians are indebted. Don't let cynicism rob you of the real promise that Bernie Sanders represents. Work for him, contribute to him, vote for him. I will.
33
Forget it , Mr. Sanders. The US is not ready for a socialist in the White House. Give it another 20 years.
I really hope Bernie runs as an independent against Hillary, splitting the leftist vote just like Ralph Nader. In fact, I am writing a fat check to Bernie's campaign today.
2
Glad that you're writing that check to Bernie. He deserves it. But your hope that he will pull a Nader doesn't have a prayer. Bernie is much too smart for that.
Good. Make it a big one. Hooray for Bernie!
1
And guess what happened the last time an Independent ran? ....George W. Bush won (never mind those "hanging chads," either).
Bernie has my full support and vote. I know, I know, you're all going to say it's wasted. But at least I can tell my grandkids that I didn't vote for Hillary or the Republican who will probably win.
6
To get a sense of the man:
- A couple years ago he did an 8.5-hour talking filibuster against making permanent the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy.
- He's one of a very small number of people in Congress that has opposed the Patriot Act since it first came to the floor.
- He came very close to putting in a public option into the Affordable Care Act.
- He has never taken big-money donations, and has no SuperPAC.
I wish him all the best, and will certainly pick him over Hillary Clinton. We should be having an election, not a coronation.
- A couple years ago he did an 8.5-hour talking filibuster against making permanent the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy.
- He's one of a very small number of people in Congress that has opposed the Patriot Act since it first came to the floor.
- He came very close to putting in a public option into the Affordable Care Act.
- He has never taken big-money donations, and has no SuperPAC.
I wish him all the best, and will certainly pick him over Hillary Clinton. We should be having an election, not a coronation.
121
Go Bernie!
Recommended reading, Bernie's autobiography written with Huck Gutman, "Outsider in the House"
Recommended reading, Bernie's autobiography written with Huck Gutman, "Outsider in the House"
19
Senator Sanders' announcement is great news. With him in the race voters won't have to chose the "lesser of two evils" or "least bad" candidate. It's shocking to see Hillary Clinton - who has serves Monsanto and Walmart, whose foreign and military policies are identical to those of the Bush administration, who supported bailing out the banks whose criminal behavior destroyed the economy, etc. - depicted as a progressive. The late Barry Goldwater might have considered her a little too rightwing and bellicose. Senator Sanders truly is progressive!
31
How long will it be before Hillary steals all of Bernie's positions?
30
Probably not too long. It shouldn't matter - who really thinks she'd honor campaign promises, anyway?
6
I hope not long! That's the point.
1
She'll get on right on that. After she and her staff figure out what lie they're going to proffer to cover the lie they told about the transparency lie they told about the Foundation when they set up the Canadian transparency dodge mentioned in the NWT and the Washington Post today.
This all reminds me why we were all so glad to see the Clintons leave office at the end of the last century. Are we really going to go along on another ride with the Clintons?
This all reminds me why we were all so glad to see the Clintons leave office at the end of the last century. Are we really going to go along on another ride with the Clintons?
2
Even if he did not have a hope in heck, I will vote for him in the primary. If the best he can do is drag HRHighness to the left, it will be worth it. If you all vote for him in the primary, he WILL have a hope in heck. Last I checked, they still go by votes instead of raw cash....
NYT, keep covering this. You may favor Hillary, but a real horse race is good for business.
NYT, keep covering this. You may favor Hillary, but a real horse race is good for business.
48
A candidate for the people of the country and not special interests, corporations and careerists. He has my vote, unless of course Warren runs.
24
She's not running, you fair weather friend
Maybe as VP.
It would be wonderful if Bernie Sanders could be considered a serious candidate, but, unfortunately, politics as they are, I'd be surprised if he's even a runner up in the primary. He's 73-years-old, tilts too far to the left to be attractive to moderate democrat voters, and he's running against a brand name candidate. If anything, he will only spoil the pot for another Clinton challenger.
The only left winger that could possibly be considered a genuine challenger is Warren, she'll counter the female vote, shares much of Sanders' ideology, isn't in her twilight years, and has name recognition from working the talk show circuit promoting her book for the past year.
The only left winger that could possibly be considered a genuine challenger is Warren, she'll counter the female vote, shares much of Sanders' ideology, isn't in her twilight years, and has name recognition from working the talk show circuit promoting her book for the past year.
9
I find your defeatest attitude truly dispiriting.
1
We badly need Warren (and 10 more like her, if we could get them) in the Senate, though, rising through the seniority ladder. As an independent (who caucuses with the D's) Sanders can't climb that ladder. He's done a lot in the Senate all the same, but mostly due to being an essential vote. Basically, he can still carry out his Senate role reasonably, while making this run, more so than the ever-more-essential Warren.
I am so glad Bernie Sanders will run for president. He will impact the conversation, which is important. However, I would also love the opportunity to cast a vote for him. But that's not going to happen since I don't reside in either Iowa or New Hampshire.
17
Last I checked, you don't have to reside in Iowa or New Hampshire to be able to vote for your choice of candidate in a Presidential primary.
1
You've got my vote, Bernie.
You are, by far, the most intelligent, sensible voice out there. I only wish I had billions to donate to your campaign -- then again, if I did, I would not be your demographic.
Perhaps there is a someone with deep pockets who is thoughtful enough to see how far this country has fallen for the average American -- a huge majority of people -- and willing to help turn things around by getting you elected.
You are, by far, the most intelligent, sensible voice out there. I only wish I had billions to donate to your campaign -- then again, if I did, I would not be your demographic.
Perhaps there is a someone with deep pockets who is thoughtful enough to see how far this country has fallen for the average American -- a huge majority of people -- and willing to help turn things around by getting you elected.
53
Yes, this country has fallen - far, very far - and it has been the democratic party's goal to achieve just that, with the embracing of unfettered waves of illegal aliens rolling into the country, stealing jobs and resources from americans who are the ones we should be helping. All this in the name of buying their votes to continue to impoverish the nation, getting as many people as possible dependent on the government for handouts, who will then continue to vote for them in the future.
There are millions of people like me, small business owners who are infinitely far from billionaires/one-percenters, but despise the democrats, and a lot of this has to do with the theft of my hard-earned money - why don't you democrats work 17 hour days 6 days per week - to pay for the medical care, schooling, and free obama cell phones for illegals. Hundreds of billions are spent on illegals, which could have re-built the country's infrastructure many times over, and improved the quality of lives of millions of US citizens - but no, the democrats need to buy their voters, so lets embrace another million more illegals, even sending planes to central america to collect them.
Only a lunatic at this point would vote for someone like sanders.
There are millions of people like me, small business owners who are infinitely far from billionaires/one-percenters, but despise the democrats, and a lot of this has to do with the theft of my hard-earned money - why don't you democrats work 17 hour days 6 days per week - to pay for the medical care, schooling, and free obama cell phones for illegals. Hundreds of billions are spent on illegals, which could have re-built the country's infrastructure many times over, and improved the quality of lives of millions of US citizens - but no, the democrats need to buy their voters, so lets embrace another million more illegals, even sending planes to central america to collect them.
Only a lunatic at this point would vote for someone like sanders.
1
Senator Sanders: You have my vote already, win or lose!
33
Re: The Issues - I think mass incarceration for profit needs to be added to the list.
21
This is the first bit of political news that pulls my head out the huge cynical cloud that is American politics. I'm gladly giving him my $100 bucks. And not worried about the Nader effect. If he can't win the primary he won't affect the general.
And let's not write him off because of the word "socialist". Don't forget it's not all bad. If nothing else he'll open a few eyes to the positives.
And let's not write him off because of the word "socialist". Don't forget it's not all bad. If nothing else he'll open a few eyes to the positives.
47
I will without a doubt be voting for Bernie, and from where I stand, I'll be joined by the many scores disappointed that Hillary is the best the Democrats can do to put forward a candidate that represents what a populist democracy should actually be. She might mean well, but what Bernie says is the truth. Thanks for the supreme court and Citizens United, the United States is trending toward becoming an oligarchy where people's individual votes hardly count compared to the money spent by corporations. Bernie's the only one who's going to make noise about that, and it's by far the most important thing happening in America today.
44
I don't even know who this guy is and I'm probably going to vote for him. Anybody, anybody, except another shot of Billiary or Bush or the rest of those clowns.
28
It would be easy to look back at Occupy Wall Street and say that it was a failed movement. It's closest cousin in terms of fringe movements, the Tea Party, yielded a political machine that has proved to be a formidable and disruptive force in Washington and throughout the nation. Of course, along the way, it sold its soul to the highest bidder and has become a pawn for anti-government corporate influences to drag the Congress and nation rightward, kicking and screaming and at the point of an NRA-approved loaded gun.
OWS, however, was far more successful. There were no leaders and it yielded no candidates, no officeholders, and no evolving messaging. It did one thing: introduced the concept of income inequality into the sphere public debate. That message has not been watered down or co-opted because there was no organization to infect with money and influence. THAT is 21st century protest model: Make your point and let it resonate because it's right and it's true, then disappear before you get sold to the highest bidder.
That's what Saunders brings to the table. He is the electoral equivalent of OWS. He's got truth on his side, and that's all he needs. He won't win. Winning isn't the point. He won't be corrupted or bought, because he is a man of genuine integrity. He will fail, but in doing so he will succeed in changing the debate in the Democratic primary and then in the general election. By entering the race, he's already accomplished what needs to be done.
OWS, however, was far more successful. There were no leaders and it yielded no candidates, no officeholders, and no evolving messaging. It did one thing: introduced the concept of income inequality into the sphere public debate. That message has not been watered down or co-opted because there was no organization to infect with money and influence. THAT is 21st century protest model: Make your point and let it resonate because it's right and it's true, then disappear before you get sold to the highest bidder.
That's what Saunders brings to the table. He is the electoral equivalent of OWS. He's got truth on his side, and that's all he needs. He won't win. Winning isn't the point. He won't be corrupted or bought, because he is a man of genuine integrity. He will fail, but in doing so he will succeed in changing the debate in the Democratic primary and then in the general election. By entering the race, he's already accomplished what needs to be done.
25
Finally. A pragmatic progressive in the debate who is smart and agile enough to make the country pay attention to substantive, workable ideas that come from the real left.
37
Sanders will cause Hillary to swing left and the voters will elect Bush.
1
It's also refreshing to have a Democrat who doesn't put abortion rights at the top of his agenda. Let's face it... that issue is settled law and does not have to be at top issue.
Finally! An option! I know his chances are slim, but Bernie gives me an opportunity to maintain my integrity.
25
Here are Bernie Sanders' positions on the issues:
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
To the NYTimes: you're welcome!
https://berniesanders.com/issues/
To the NYTimes: you're welcome!
29
Wall Street has the Clintons in their back pocket so the Clintons have the Times in their back pocket. Look it up at opensecrets.org. Expect nothing but disrespect in their coverage of the Sanders campaign.
1
Why is this so low down on your homepage? When all of the other candidates have announced, you had it as headlines. He is in his second term as Senator from Vermont and needs to be taken seriously. He does not have the same type of fat cat financing as Hilary or the Republican candidates but that is exactly what his campaign will be all about. In light of Citizens United, it is the responsibility of high quality media outlets like the NYT, to help equal the playing field and give Sanders more attention.
99
Thank you for saying what I've been thinking -
Oh goody. Good luck. Perhaps he can draft lizzie warren to be his deputy. that will appeal to the majority of the americans, sure why not. They can promise increasing taxes to 95%, making education free for all, free housing for all, government taking over 95% of the economy, and unions everywhere. All winning issues. Please draft Warren, and god speed
3
Agreed.
Sanders is to the Dems what Cruz is to the GOP. A loudmouth who might pull the obvious nominee a little further left or right.
Like Cruz, Sanders's platform only resounds with his ideologue followers.
Sanders is to the Dems what Cruz is to the GOP. A loudmouth who might pull the obvious nominee a little further left or right.
Like Cruz, Sanders's platform only resounds with his ideologue followers.
Who are you backing? Rafael Cruz?
Bernie's got my vote NOW ! Hillary is a lukewarm nondescript over-rated candidate with many strings attached.
28
If we had a Parliamentary system, smaller parties might have a shot at upsetting the apple cart for the two bands of thugs running America on behalf of Wall Street. I would love to vote for Sanders - the only problem is, he has no shot at the nomination. I have no intention of voting for Hillary, who is no more a populist than Queen Elizabeth II. I hope once he loses the nomination, Sanders runs as an Independent - if he does, he will most certainly have my vote. If he doesn't, I will vote another third party if I have to. I'm tired of the Lesser of Two Evils.
8
I fully understand reader Renant's feeling and agree with it. The only danger is that it may divide the vote to such a degree that it will hand the keys to the White House to one of those out-of-touch goofy GOPers that seem to multiply like bunny rabbits.
..please explain how your attempt at "pragmatism" deals with Wall $treet economic disaster, TTP-TTIP, or LIES by neocons driving Pax-Americana to endless wars, continued by bushBAMA (no change)? "Pragmatism" is not an answer to issues. We need judge candidates on basis of stand on issues...no more "hopey-changey" bought and sold democrats or republicans...
Bravo Bernie!
You have just made your Republican friends smile.
You have just made your Republican friends smile.
3
Go Bernie!! he has my whole-hearted support.
but NY Times: why this description:
"A self-described “Democratic socialist” and grumpy grandfather-type, Mr. Sanders has promised to steer the Democratic Party toward a mature debate about the issues he is passionate about."
"Grumpy grandfather-type"?
A) the description is gratuitous, stereotypical, and wrong. Do you think he's Abe Simpson? Did you ever describe John Mccain that way? Anyhow, Bernie is not "grumpy" -- just sometimes ticked off about how our billionaire class runs politics and is hell-bent on destroying the social safety net. Shouldn't we all be?
B) The hyphenization is odd. he's either a "grumpy-grandfather-type" or a "grumpy-grandfather type".
but NY Times: why this description:
"A self-described “Democratic socialist” and grumpy grandfather-type, Mr. Sanders has promised to steer the Democratic Party toward a mature debate about the issues he is passionate about."
"Grumpy grandfather-type"?
A) the description is gratuitous, stereotypical, and wrong. Do you think he's Abe Simpson? Did you ever describe John Mccain that way? Anyhow, Bernie is not "grumpy" -- just sometimes ticked off about how our billionaire class runs politics and is hell-bent on destroying the social safety net. Shouldn't we all be?
B) The hyphenization is odd. he's either a "grumpy-grandfather-type" or a "grumpy-grandfather type".
36
Go Bernie!!!
16
It looks like some commenters are operating under the misconception that Senator Sanders is a third party candidate and could siphon off votes from Hillary Clinton in the general election. Not true! He is running as a Democrat and his candidacy will impact ONLY the Democratic primary. If Hillary gets the nomination, she will run unopposed by Senator Sanders.
Relax, he is not a spoiler.
Relax, he is not a spoiler.
27
When you get most of your information from Hannitty and Limbaugh, its easy to be misinformed.
2
Finally there will be something worth reading in the politics section.
41
The other candidates had best fortify their
positions with something other than the usual hollow rhetoric -- Sen. Sanders plays for keeps. GO GET'M BERNIE!!
positions with something other than the usual hollow rhetoric -- Sen. Sanders plays for keeps. GO GET'M BERNIE!!
26
For most of his political career there was no "D" at the end of Sanders. Now he wants to be the Democrats' nominee for President? It appears to be a new spelling of the word "Chutzpah." If he wants to run for President he can do so as an Independent.
I don't care what he runs as as long as he does it.
2
You want our two main political parties to function as gated, private clubs, and for that to be the basis of our political system?
It's not easy to get on the ballot in each state. If he doesn't have strong backing from signature-gatherers throughout each state (red, purple or blue) he won't be on your primary ballot. If he does get on the ballot, that means there are people with a "D" after their name, throughout your state, who passionately want him there, and are willing to go door-to-door getting signatures (in end-of-Feb weather, in many states) to do so.
It's not easy to get on the ballot in each state. If he doesn't have strong backing from signature-gatherers throughout each state (red, purple or blue) he won't be on your primary ballot. If he does get on the ballot, that means there are people with a "D" after their name, throughout your state, who passionately want him there, and are willing to go door-to-door getting signatures (in end-of-Feb weather, in many states) to do so.
Cue the FoxNews derangement. Watch "socialist democrat" morph into "socialist" which will morph into "communist" which will morph into "fascist."
And the Tea Partiers, whose lives he would improve if he were president, will never vote for him because he doesn't say "Jesus" enough.
And the Tea Partiers, whose lives he would improve if he were president, will never vote for him because he doesn't say "Jesus" enough.
23
Not a chance in hell, and go, Bernie, go.
7
As much as I love Bernie Sanders and everything he stands for, he cannot be a spoiler in 2016 to the point where we end up with Republicans holding both Congress and the Presidency. That would be an absolute disaster for the country. If he can move Hilary to the left, get Americans talking about progressive ideas and help Democratic Congressional candidates to win, that would be the best outcome.
And as much as I would welcome a third party that actually represents average Americans, 2016 is also not the year for that.
And as much as I would welcome a third party that actually represents average Americans, 2016 is also not the year for that.
8
As others have pointed out, he is running in the Democratic primary, not as a third party candidate. He can raise issues important to people, even Fox watchers who don't know now what is what, and get the campaign focus on what counts, not stupid marginal issues compared to inequality and the destruction of democracy by billionaires and an ignorant populace.
Provide the information and let's see what happens. Hillary probably will be the party nominee, but the issues important to people other than the rich will have to be heard and that can change the tone and substance of the election season.
Bernie is the real deal honest person who cares about all Americans, even the rich, but doesn't think they should "rule" over the rest of us.
Provide the information and let's see what happens. Hillary probably will be the party nominee, but the issues important to people other than the rich will have to be heard and that can change the tone and substance of the election season.
Bernie is the real deal honest person who cares about all Americans, even the rich, but doesn't think they should "rule" over the rest of us.
216
So instead you think that 2016 is the year to return the presidency to an aloof, dynastic millionare (ie., Clinton Bush)? And you fear that Bernie might "spoil" that play? Bring it on Bernie.
America is suffocating under the stiff hand of over regulation, corrupt crony capitalism, and institutional censorship to the point where this country looks more like Putin's Russia every day.
I don't know much about Bernie but it's clear that he is his own man and would inject fresh ideas, verve and honest hope into this moribund election process that has been hijacked by these two pathetic political parties. And the fact that he scares the Democrats as much as the Republicans makes me like him even more.
America is suffocating under the stiff hand of over regulation, corrupt crony capitalism, and institutional censorship to the point where this country looks more like Putin's Russia every day.
I don't know much about Bernie but it's clear that he is his own man and would inject fresh ideas, verve and honest hope into this moribund election process that has been hijacked by these two pathetic political parties. And the fact that he scares the Democrats as much as the Republicans makes me like him even more.
6
A Republican President in 2016 would only show front and center who really runs this country. Maybe then people will finally wake up.
I like Bernie Sanders and his ideas and will be happy to hear what he says. The only thing better than this announcement to run for President is if he were to announce that he was teaming up with Ralph Nader in doing so. Two torpedoes could certainly sink the Mighty H's ship quicker and better than just one, right?
1
The Democrat party will now decide if we want real reform that is not predicated on a quid pro quo from bundlers, the super rich and others of that ilk.
Senator Sanders' chances are long against the "Clinton Machine" and it is not only money where Ms. Clinton will have the advantage. To be sure, Secretary Clinton and President Clinton have been organizing, planning, calling in favors, strategizing and tactically setting up each move on the campaign trail for 2016 since she resigned as Secretary of State. Moreover the establishment of the Democrat party wants Secretary Clinton to win.
If liberals and those aligned to Senator Sanders' positions don't financially support him and vote for him in primaries and caucuses, shame on us.
Senator Sanders' chances are long against the "Clinton Machine" and it is not only money where Ms. Clinton will have the advantage. To be sure, Secretary Clinton and President Clinton have been organizing, planning, calling in favors, strategizing and tactically setting up each move on the campaign trail for 2016 since she resigned as Secretary of State. Moreover the establishment of the Democrat party wants Secretary Clinton to win.
If liberals and those aligned to Senator Sanders' positions don't financially support him and vote for him in primaries and caucuses, shame on us.
9
FDR Liberal, it's the Democratic Party, not the "Democrat Party."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democratic_Party_%28United_States%29
"Tracing its origins back to the Democratic-Republican Party, the modern Democratic Party was founded around 1828, making it the oldest political party in the world that is still in existence."
"Democrat Party" is a mutilation of the actual name, propagated by far-right media. Those who use it are appropriately considered low-information individuals.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democratic_Party_%28United_States%29
"Tracing its origins back to the Democratic-Republican Party, the modern Democratic Party was founded around 1828, making it the oldest political party in the world that is still in existence."
"Democrat Party" is a mutilation of the actual name, propagated by far-right media. Those who use it are appropriately considered low-information individuals.
2
It's not the DEMOCRAT Party it's the DEMOCRATIC Party.
1
As a liberal and informed voter, I take no offense to the term Democrat Party.
I just sent Bernie a $100 donation online
If you want to contribute, go to https://berniesanders.com/ and click the Donate button.
Keep Democracy alive! Your vote (and your contribution) count!
If you want to contribute, go to https://berniesanders.com/ and click the Donate button.
Keep Democracy alive! Your vote (and your contribution) count!
29
..done..
2
i just bernie $100. i can't wait for the dem debates! bernie will inject much needed reality and help frame the debate and issues. i love vermont!
26
Vermont is and has been populated with many former NYC people and wow are they liberal - like me. Bernie is the perfect gadfly - OK - Socrates is the person who is identified as the first gadfly. One whose ideas can change the course of the ship of state.
Think of a gadfly as a horse fly - since most have never been bitten by one - I would rather get stung by a wasp and how they will make you react.
Some of Bernie's ideas are way too far left but some are right on.
The Wall Street Bankers in their quest for profits ruined millions of people's lives world wide and not a one of them ended up in jail. They were bailed out by the taxpayers - that was one of the greatest crimes every committed and now we can only get mad about it - the statute of limitations will keep them out of jail.
GO BERNIE GO!
Think of a gadfly as a horse fly - since most have never been bitten by one - I would rather get stung by a wasp and how they will make you react.
Some of Bernie's ideas are way too far left but some are right on.
The Wall Street Bankers in their quest for profits ruined millions of people's lives world wide and not a one of them ended up in jail. They were bailed out by the taxpayers - that was one of the greatest crimes every committed and now we can only get mad about it - the statute of limitations will keep them out of jail.
GO BERNIE GO!
9
Go Bernie!
NY Times: "grumpy grandfather-type"? seriously?
beyond the gratuitousness of that statement (and Bernie has never struck me as particularly grumpy), what is with the hyphen? there either should be two hyphens or none, or perhaps only one, between grumpy and grandfather. . Unless Bernie is a grandfather-type who is GRUMPY, as opposed to a grumpy-grandfather type.
NY Times: "grumpy grandfather-type"? seriously?
beyond the gratuitousness of that statement (and Bernie has never struck me as particularly grumpy), what is with the hyphen? there either should be two hyphens or none, or perhaps only one, between grumpy and grandfather. . Unless Bernie is a grandfather-type who is GRUMPY, as opposed to a grumpy-grandfather type.
9
Great news.
9
I'm voting for Sanders if he makes it through the primary or if he runs as an independent. We need more options to vote for as the Clinton's aren't even Bush light, they're Republicans in Democratic garb beholden to big money, big media, big military and a big Washington that supports big money and the erosion of the common man's rights. The Clintons and Bushes have nothing in common with the common people. Sanders needs to spend some time in both African American and hispanic communities if he's to stand a chance against the Clinton and Bush behemoths.
10
Once upon a time this Dem didn't want Sanders (or anyone for that matter) to stand in Clinton's way. But considering how stiff she looks right now and how much Sanders really stands for liberal ideals, I've changed my mind. We need Sanders--and Biden--to challenge her in order to move her further left of center and to help her work on her debating and campaigning skills. Just so long as Sanders doesn't "pull a Nader" and hang on until the end as a 3rd party and deprive Clinton of votes.
136
Why keep repeating this lie? The political machine in Florida disenfranchised thousand of black voters, the Supreme Court absconded with democracy and we, the American voters, sat in front of our TV and allowed it to happen.
He's running as a Democrat b/c he didn't see the viability of a third-party candidacy. That means the battle will only take place through the primaries. Go, Bernie, Go!
1
Moving Hillary Clinton to the left may work during the campaign, but trusting her to stay on the left if she wins
is no sure thing. I for one want Bernie to hang in there to the very end. Perhaps Democrats deserve to have a Republican win in order to show them what their wimpiness costs them.
is no sure thing. I for one want Bernie to hang in there to the very end. Perhaps Democrats deserve to have a Republican win in order to show them what their wimpiness costs them.
Ron Paul 2012, Bernie Sanders 2016.
2
This is good news. Sanders and Clinton are worlds apart, but their position on issues is not the critical difference distinguishing them from one another: Sanders says exactly what he believes, and you know where he stands, regardless of poll numbers. To the extent he can drag Clinton over to this way of thinking he will be a boon to the Democrats.
9
As an unabashed Hillary Clinton supporter, I welcome this development! It's good democracy, for one. And two, it is not a bad thing to invade Hillary's comfort zone. While I believe that Clinton has always been a progressive, over the years, she has to had to apply layers of caution and control. If Sanders can help strip of her these layers, it will be a boon to the conversation, and ultimately (and hopefully), the electorate.
7
Bernie is perhaps the only person in Congress who puts what is right for the people above what is right for corporations.
38
Bernie another example pretentious political hack.
1
Ouch, Mean comment, Wingate. Maybe it is because you ade on the other side of the country, or maybe a republican, but listen to Bernie and see if you don't get it that he is honest and he cares about the rest of us.
He does not pander to money and he will not win, but what a gift to the Democrats in the country, and to those in the red states who just don't understand what has happened to our democracy. Maybe they will hear things that are in their self interest and do not involve endless wars and the one percent.
A much needed voice, and it would be a nice surprise if the media paid attention to him raising real issues instead of messages of exclusion and hatred.
He does not pander to money and he will not win, but what a gift to the Democrats in the country, and to those in the red states who just don't understand what has happened to our democracy. Maybe they will hear things that are in their self interest and do not involve endless wars and the one percent.
A much needed voice, and it would be a nice surprise if the media paid attention to him raising real issues instead of messages of exclusion and hatred.
3
I don't see how Sanders can win a national election should he secure the nomination. The safe play in staving off a Republican President and the conservative agenda is a vote for Clinton. But I don't care. I'm going to vote for Bernie. Since coming of age I've longed for the opportunity to vote for a politician that possessed even a shred of integrity never mind one who mostly shares my values and vision for our great country. Instead I've mostly been faced with a choice between "the lesser of two evils." I shall not squander this opportunity. And I am willing to live with the consequences. Sanders for President. Go get em Bernie!
28
"I do not have millionaire or billionaire friends.”
This should be his campaign motto. It will terrify the elitists and the kleptocrats.
This should be his campaign motto. It will terrify the elitists and the kleptocrats.
41
Great! Unfortunately if you want a shot at the nomination, you need those millionaire or billionaire friends. Let's not hand the election to the Republicans, please.
1
Things just got interesting; an actual democrat is running.
39
This is clearly a symbolic run for President, but even so, it will be good for the democrats (and the country) to hear a more populist voice.
7
Sanders/Warren 2016!
12
Well, now I have someone to vote for - in the primary at least. And donate to. And work for. How many of you are sick and tired of voting for the lesser of two evils? If the elected members of the Democratic Party won't cleanse themselves of New Democrats like Obama and the Clintons it's up to us to do it for them. Let them become the 'moderate' Republicans they really are. Enough of 'putting entitlements' on the table. Enough of one sided international trade deals that sacrifice environmental and labor regulations for the sake of profits to our (and everyone else's) 1%. And enough of leaving the 'public option' health insurance off the table and substituting instead Obamacare.
38
The most honest candidate in the field. You can take his words to the bank. He says what he believes - no funny verbal games with Bernie. A great candidate. I really admire and believe him. If elected he will do great things for the country.
38
A couple of things
1. I would assume that the Draft-Warren stuff (which I was a part of) is now over and we're getting behind Bernie Sanders 100% now.
2. We don't want to be splitting our vote like the religious right does. We gotta coalesce around Bernie.
Bernie Sanders 2016!
1. I would assume that the Draft-Warren stuff (which I was a part of) is now over and we're getting behind Bernie Sanders 100% now.
2. We don't want to be splitting our vote like the religious right does. We gotta coalesce around Bernie.
Bernie Sanders 2016!
25
Bernie has been saying these things MANY YEARS before Elizabeth Warren!
2
It is refreshing to have a real grown-up person running for national office.
38
He's got my vote, unless Elizabeth Warren runs. If she doesn't want to run, he should ask her to be his Vice President. They are two of a rapidly shrinking group of honest, courageous politicians left in this miserable country.
27
We need more than basic competence (Hillary Clinton). We need somebody honest. The emergence of Hillary is a cynical calculation that democrats can't run on ideas and that she is the only politician capable of raising enough money to buy the election. It's a deal with the devil.
I'm going to support Bernie Sanders just to give him and his ideas a fair shot.
I'm going to support Bernie Sanders just to give him and his ideas a fair shot.
32
If the Dems want to keep us Dems, they better take Bernie seriously and give him the shot.
28
Sanders can't overcome the Clinton steamroller, but can sure effect the direction it takes. I would like to see him go head to head against the Thurd Bush, who already seems to be the anointed one of the GOP. Bush would end up as so much chopped liver in that contest.
7
He should run on the Socialist ticket.
1
Why? We let Republicans run on the democratic ticket and libertarians run as republicans.
Hillary Clinton gives a speech, or Barak Obama gives a speech, and NOBODY CARES! Nobody honestly believes what is said, and it's so boring because it is not thoughtful and it is not sincere. It is just politically correct gobbledegook that we can nod our heads to if it more-or-less supports our position.
Republicans give speeches, and intelligent people more-or-less shake their heads or laugh. These clowns self-implode until one is left standing, and then HE (they're Republicans after all) self-implodes later with a bigger gaff. While Michelle and Sarah continue to make jokes of themselves.
The interesting thing about Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren is that they make sense. Perhaps this is why we hear and see so little of them in the national media. If anything, I hope that Bernie sparked the debate. Democrats have not been doing this for decades. REAL DEBATE....
Republicans give speeches, and intelligent people more-or-less shake their heads or laugh. These clowns self-implode until one is left standing, and then HE (they're Republicans after all) self-implodes later with a bigger gaff. While Michelle and Sarah continue to make jokes of themselves.
The interesting thing about Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren is that they make sense. Perhaps this is why we hear and see so little of them in the national media. If anything, I hope that Bernie sparked the debate. Democrats have not been doing this for decades. REAL DEBATE....
22
It's nice to finally have a Democrat in the race for the Democratic Party nomination for President of the United States. Give 'em hell, Bernie!
38
This sounds like another McGovern debacle on election day. Many Democrats will vote Republican, but no conservative will go left. Don't get me wrong. Sanders will bring up the issues that the Democratic Party has run away from, but issues don't win elections, in my opinion. We seem to be a country that favors oligarchies.
I will send Sanders my $100. I am an issues man. I am ashamed of both parties.
I will send Sanders my $100. I am an issues man. I am ashamed of both parties.
16
Senator Sanders' entry makes this a campaign about the middle class and the aspiring lower classes for whom work, personal responsibility and education for their children are articles of faith in themselves and in America. All we want is a fair shot and an even playing field. "Work your fingers to the bone and what do you get? Boney fingers" is as true today as it was when that truism was written. I think Senator Sanders is committed to the American work ethic with dignity and fairness for all. What could be more American?
31
Because America has had no credible socialist wing, conservatives can get away with calling Obamacare "socialist" when its individual mandate was invented by the right-wing Heritage Foundation. Conservatives can get away with calling it socialist when someone wants to raise the top marginal income tax rate from 35% to 38%. They use the term to delegitimize anything that doesn’t move the country to the right.
Without a credible socialist wing, the entire political system has been organized around free market assumptions that are questionable at best. Does the best route to a successful society really involve starving public investment to unleash the private sector? Must our political system be owned by billionaires? Do ordinary Americans need more risk in their lives, or less; more support, or more “liberty”? What happens when technology and trade wipe out millions of knowledge-based jobs, too? What really happens to economic growth in states like Kansas and Wisconsin where conservatives take power?
These are serious questions. The entire Republican Party wants us to ignore them. Too many Democrats are perfectly fine suggesting solutions that only help at the margins. Without an alternative, they get away with this – and Republican politicians can dress up their usual upward-redistributionist policies as the solution. It would be funny if it weren’t so tragic.
Bernie will offer an alternative. You don’t have to be a socialist to welcome that. Where do I send my $100?
Without a credible socialist wing, the entire political system has been organized around free market assumptions that are questionable at best. Does the best route to a successful society really involve starving public investment to unleash the private sector? Must our political system be owned by billionaires? Do ordinary Americans need more risk in their lives, or less; more support, or more “liberty”? What happens when technology and trade wipe out millions of knowledge-based jobs, too? What really happens to economic growth in states like Kansas and Wisconsin where conservatives take power?
These are serious questions. The entire Republican Party wants us to ignore them. Too many Democrats are perfectly fine suggesting solutions that only help at the margins. Without an alternative, they get away with this – and Republican politicians can dress up their usual upward-redistributionist policies as the solution. It would be funny if it weren’t so tragic.
Bernie will offer an alternative. You don’t have to be a socialist to welcome that. Where do I send my $100?
70
Bernie is the genuine article. We don't need political dynastic families in America. That's for banana republics and places like North Korea.
Looking back at the last 25 years or so in Presidential politics, my greatest regret is that Jerry Brown was not the Democratic nominee in 1992. Just look at the job he is doing in California cleaning up after what preceded him. I am sure, that under a Brown Presidency, we would not have seen the repeal of Glass Steagall or all those disadvantagous trade treaties. We need the Democratic party to return to Democratic values.
Looking back at the last 25 years or so in Presidential politics, my greatest regret is that Jerry Brown was not the Democratic nominee in 1992. Just look at the job he is doing in California cleaning up after what preceded him. I am sure, that under a Brown Presidency, we would not have seen the repeal of Glass Steagall or all those disadvantagous trade treaties. We need the Democratic party to return to Democratic values.
71
Seems like a good man, but not a president. Some of his ideas are pretty good, but will be steamrolled by Hilary. Bernie is doing no favors for the Democrats. Much as I hate to say it, I'd rather see Martin O'Mally join the fray. We can have own own Democrat clown car. Yes, I would have welcomed Jerry Brown, instead of Bill Clinton, 24 years ago. I think our country would be vastly different, and better, today.
1
Joe Biden has a"filter" problem, but maybe he should get in there, too.
Oh goody! A 70-year-old Brooklynite turned Vermonter, Socialist, Independent becoming a Democratic Presidential candidate. Now that will win an election?
Come on America--can't we do younger and better???
Come on America--can't we do younger and better???
4
The "younger an better" realize what a dysfunctional system their forbears created. Besides, anyone younger and better will never be heard because politics is about big money and the older and worse have all of that.
1
maybe younger, but you may never find a BETTER choice. After the last 16 years how could anyone with half a brain not try something truly different. We finally have a non-business party candidate.
4
Age and the socialist label aside, the last Democratic president elected from the Northeast region of the county was JFK - that was 55 years ago! Perhaps O'Malley of Maryland might fare OK (given how poor our schools teach geography), but the Dems should look to the Midwest for an electable candidate.
I love Bernie Sanders and I welcome his wise voice in this campaign. However, I have a word to aptly describe all those "lefty" voters who pledge they will never, ever vote for Hillary: Republican.
14
Madelin, its time to stop voting for the least worst choice....we now have a legitimate option other than worst and more worst! Spread the word,power to the people, power to the middle class!
4
You have it backwards. Hillary is the republican, hence democrats like me refuse to support her.
3
Misogyny played an important role in Senator Clinton's loss to Barack Obama-not the vote on Iraq-that is cited by leftists who could not vote for a woman in power if there was a male choice, as there was. I admire Senator Sanders and hope he pushes Senator Clinton to the left, but I am not optimistic about her chances. Men still rule in national politics. Bernie Sanders has no chance. The only thing worse than a woman is a socialist or an atheist.
Because trickle-down socialism has been working so great, we need to dial it up to eleven!
3
Are you suggesting that our current form of government is not socialistic? How about Britain, or France? And, BTW, it does work, just not for rich people, or dumb people.
2
Socialism doesn't "trickle down", it works from the bottom up. And it does work pretty well. Just ask the Swedes, the Fins, the Norwegians, the French, Germans. It even works in Canada, and that's just to the north of us. They're easily the best run democracy in North America.
3
Yes, there's a reason those nations register higher on the happiness scale. They don't worry about getting a decent education or health care. And, they have very little, if any, class conflict.
3
Here are two incontrovertible facts:
1. Bernie Sanders would be the best president of anybody, left or right, who is currently considering a run for president.
2. Bernie Sanders will never be elected president of the U.S. (For many reason: he's 75, he has no money, he's a self-described socialist, the list goes on).
I welcome his entry into the race, and if it pushes Hillary further left, all the better. But I fear a "Nader Effect": he might do so much damage to Hillary that a Republican might sneak in to the White House. Given the stakes, especially given that 2 or 3 Supreme Court Justices are going to retire in the next eight years, that's a very big risk to take.
1. Bernie Sanders would be the best president of anybody, left or right, who is currently considering a run for president.
2. Bernie Sanders will never be elected president of the U.S. (For many reason: he's 75, he has no money, he's a self-described socialist, the list goes on).
I welcome his entry into the race, and if it pushes Hillary further left, all the better. But I fear a "Nader Effect": he might do so much damage to Hillary that a Republican might sneak in to the White House. Given the stakes, especially given that 2 or 3 Supreme Court Justices are going to retire in the next eight years, that's a very big risk to take.
15
He's 73, and I welcome the wisdom that comes only with age and experience.
1
Ageist!!
Bernie is hitting a whole new demographic you are unaware of....
Bernie is hitting a whole new demographic you are unaware of....
1
“I think people should be a little bit careful underestimating me,”
For all those who support him and yet say he can't win because of this or that, lets not start out with that attitude. I think it's important to be positive and say he can win. Mr. Sanders can strike a chord with the American people and it can spread like a wildfire. Millions are fed up with big money politics and crave something new and refreshing. It is important that Mr. Sanders reaches out to the African American, Latino and Asian American communities as well in a way that shows his sensitivities to people of color.
For all those who support him and yet say he can't win because of this or that, lets not start out with that attitude. I think it's important to be positive and say he can win. Mr. Sanders can strike a chord with the American people and it can spread like a wildfire. Millions are fed up with big money politics and crave something new and refreshing. It is important that Mr. Sanders reaches out to the African American, Latino and Asian American communities as well in a way that shows his sensitivities to people of color.
37
I'm a progressive Democrat who loves Bernie Sanders. People will soon learn that he still has and lives by his tough, plain-spoken Brooklyn-born roots. He maybe the David facing the Hillary Clinton Goliath and the Republican-backed "billionaire class" as he calls them, but Bernie, too, has his slingshot of populist issues that Americans can embrace--a decent wage; good-paying jobs here at home rather than corporate-backed and -written trade agreements that send them abroad; and financial reform that puts the interest of consumers over the usurious interest-rates of the rich lenders. I'm thrilled to see Senator Sanders in the race. He will not only make it exciting, but also, more importantly, move the dialogue to the real issues that matter most to most of us.
54
We all laughed when he first ran for a national office. After all, someone from Brooklyn with a heavy Brooklyn accent representing Vermont? When Bernie first ran for Congress, he received 2% of the vote. Since then, he has served 8 terms in the House and is in his 2nd term in the Senate. His winning percentages are now in the 85% range. He is a good and honest person who TRULY CARES ABOUT US. Go, Bernie.
114
Well, Vermont IS one of the best places on earth. This is just one of the reasons.
3
“Presidential Candidate Vows to Fight against Low Wages with the Support of $10 Donations”
Sad that that’s all I could afford. The billionaires are lovin’ it, though.
Sad that that’s all I could afford. The billionaires are lovin’ it, though.
15
He probably won't beat out Clinton, but he will force the debate to go to issues that matter to progressives and to issues about which direction we want this country to go. SANDERS2016
15
This is fantastic news! Finally someone to vote for this time around.
Anyone who gets Bernie's email broadcasts called 'Bernie's Buzz' will know just how intelligently & passionately he advocates for proper policy for we the people.
Many thanks to the indefatigable & brilliant Bernie Sanders for his commitment. He will make a fantastic president.
Anyone who gets Bernie's email broadcasts called 'Bernie's Buzz' will know just how intelligently & passionately he advocates for proper policy for we the people.
Many thanks to the indefatigable & brilliant Bernie Sanders for his commitment. He will make a fantastic president.
29
Horray !!
The very first candidate with the interests of the public on the top of his list !!
Go Bernie !!
The very first candidate with the interests of the public on the top of his list !!
Go Bernie !!
28
Get rid of the parties and the labels, campaign on ideas.....and Sanders would win the election. 98% of the nation is fed up with the way this country is being run.
If nothing else Sanders is surfacing ideas no one else in the mainstream political arena will touch if he (or she) wishes to run for high office.
If nothing else Sanders is surfacing ideas no one else in the mainstream political arena will touch if he (or she) wishes to run for high office.
36
I'm very excited about Bernie this morning and have already contributed half of my $100. And I am also excited about Hillary and really don't see why we can't be excited about both of them. We have two incredibly knowledgeable and talented candidates.
9
At least he isn't suggesting he will be "misunderestimated". Well, I think his chances are nonetheless slim to none, but he can indeed be a counterweight to Ms. Clinton and also to Republicans, who cannot win the November election without getting some Democrats and Independents to vote for them. Sen. Sanders is, if nothing else, focused on issue details, and can force both major parties to deal with more than image, perception and likability, assuming he can manage to garner sufficient media coverage.
6
Stop saying he can't win... It's about dang time, Mr Sanders!
Where do I sign up to joinr the campaign
Where do I sign up to joinr the campaign
28
Ella, we can sign up here: https://berniesanders.com/ :-)
3
Every political party needs a fringe candidate for comic relief until the mainstream people show up behind their entourages and suck up all the oxygen, so welcome Senator Sanders.
I am delighted that Bernie is running as a Democrat. Much as I love him, this is a gesture to bring attention to an important issue rather than a serious bid for the nomination. The memory of Gore v. Bush and the votes diverted to Ralph Nader still haunt me. How different the world might be today had W not become President after the 2000 election.
5
Yes! I'm ready for Bernie! Finally a political voice to represent mine.
28
"Having Bernie Sanders in the race, calling for populism, will help open the political space for people like Hillary Clinton and others to take bold stands,"
That's one way of putting it. If given a chance, Clinton would prefer to run an inch or two to the left of Republicans. Sanders campaign is about changing Clinton's cost/utility calculations. I wonder if the above quote is naivete, spin, or a wicked sense of humor.
That's one way of putting it. If given a chance, Clinton would prefer to run an inch or two to the left of Republicans. Sanders campaign is about changing Clinton's cost/utility calculations. I wonder if the above quote is naivete, spin, or a wicked sense of humor.
4
Excellent news. Senator Sanders, we need your grit and integrity. Thank you for your commitment to the grueling, thankless job of running for president. You will have my vote, even if I have to write it in.
25
I am thrilled there is a candidate I can support sincerely for President. I know he won't win, but I am tired of compromising my beliefs for the political expediency.
14
I've listened to him for an hour every Friday on the Thom Hartmann show for years and remained impressed with the man's honesty, clarity, reasonableness, and -- how to say it? -- goodness. Bernie Sanders is the Real Deal. Best candidate I've seen in my life. What he has to say needs to be heard by the American people, and even if he doesn't win, his mere presence lifts the 2016 presidential contest to heights that I wouldn't have thought possible. He's the kind of statesman our founders had in mind when they created this democratic republic.
One caveat: the media, including our esteemed NYTimes, insists on referring him to "grumpy" and "gruff." That description simply does not fit. Sen. Sanders is invariably pleasant, kind, and considerate. I can only assume that these descriptions are based on his voice and appearance. It's time to look deeper, folks.
One caveat: the media, including our esteemed NYTimes, insists on referring him to "grumpy" and "gruff." That description simply does not fit. Sen. Sanders is invariably pleasant, kind, and considerate. I can only assume that these descriptions are based on his voice and appearance. It's time to look deeper, folks.
60
He's got my vote.
22
Mine, too!! Go Bernie!
1
Bernie Sanders is never going to win.
Bernie Sanders is a narcissist, quixotic, trouble maker.
Bernie Sanders is a narcissist, quixotic, trouble maker.
1
I think you just described Scott Walker.
2
Trouble-making is precisely what this country needs.
1
Unlike what...Ted Cruz?
1
I love Bernie Sanders ideas, and energy in bringing them to public attention but what is his constituency and how can he raise enough money to be a serious candidate? No Democrat wants another Ralph Nader vanity candidate who did more to damage the implementation of his own ideas, by helping Bush 43 get elected, than if he had never run. However, I'm not personally concerned about Sanders falling into that trap of egotism. He's realistic enough as a politician to eschew running independently in the event of his losing the nomination and I think would support the Democratic nominee.
86
Senator Sanders greatest contribution to the 2016 presidential campaign will be to ensure that the issues of the financial corruption of our political system and economic income inequality will remain at the center of the presidential candidates' discussion throughout the race—or, at least, through the primary season.
Keep 'em honest, Bernie!
Keep 'em honest, Bernie!
2
I've never donated money or time to a campaign, but I would to one by Sanders.
2
Bernie is running as a Democrat, not a third party candidate. He's no Nader.
If Clinton had an ounce of Mr. Sander's blood in her veins she would not be Hillary Clinton.
6
Bernie Sanders has about zero chance of winning the nomination. His entry will have one definite effect and one possible one. Definitely Hillary will have to take stands on the issues and will fear using a rope-a-dope strategy to tiptoe around the issues. If Sanders makes a strong showing in Iowa or New Hampshire the toothless sharks will smell blood in the water and may jump in. Chafee has about the same chance as Sanders, maybe -10% and O'Malley is now excluded by the Baltimore riots which he had a hand in causing by his zero tolerance policies as mayor. Cuomo, Warren, Webb and others are potential candidates.
1
In the past 20 years I have been determined not to give to political campaigns, since my paltry donation gives me no influence. Besides, the money would be spent on mindless advertisements, stupid sound-bites, and no serious discussion of the issues and the direction of our country. Big Money has power and a "seat at the table." Little Money gets you nothing but "Thanks for the support, but your opinion doesn't matter."
But with Bernie in the race, I may give him $50 or $100 and know that he is speaking for me and millions of other ordinary folks.
But with Bernie in the race, I may give him $50 or $100 and know that he is speaking for me and millions of other ordinary folks.
27
This is great news! Thank you, Bernie!
22
A sane discussion of what progressives really stand for is much needed.
And Hillary will not provide that, unless she is forced to
Go, Bernie.
And Hillary will not provide that, unless she is forced to
Go, Bernie.
18
I really like Bernie Sanders but please please please tell me he won't be another Ralph Nader. When he gets people excited to vote and maybe moves the Democratic Party à bit to the left, then he withdraws and encourages people to vote for Hillary. Please please please not another Ralph Nader. Please.
2
Bernie Sanders wants to compete in the Democratic Primary. If he wins the Primary, then he becomes the Democratic Party nominee. He doesn't become an alternative to Hilary ---- she won't be on the ticket.
I can tell from some of the comments, such as this one, that quite a few commenters don't know how our political system works, how someone gets on the ballot.
I can tell from some of the comments, such as this one, that quite a few commenters don't know how our political system works, how someone gets on the ballot.
1
I hope Democrats don't call him and spoiler, cry out 'Think of the Supreme Court!' and malign him as they did to American patriot Ralph Nader. Running for election is what democracy is about and no one should be shamed or derided because they choose to run and end up supposedly weakening an already weak candidate of the Establishment. If a candidate can't even carry his home state, he's hopeless. Don't blame anyone else. At least we know Bernie will carry Vermont. He's no wooden Al Gore. Bernie is alive!
But this could be just the usual political game to get voters energized and mobilized to help get people registered and turn out the vote only to have Bernie give his delegates to the Queen of Cash at the end. That's the way the game has always been played. They need at least one candidate who can light a fire. Too bad the Establishment puts it out by burning us with it in the end. 'Supreme Court!'
Sanders-Warren 2016
But this could be just the usual political game to get voters energized and mobilized to help get people registered and turn out the vote only to have Bernie give his delegates to the Queen of Cash at the end. That's the way the game has always been played. They need at least one candidate who can light a fire. Too bad the Establishment puts it out by burning us with it in the end. 'Supreme Court!'
Sanders-Warren 2016
10
I too thought I would sit out the election. I would never vote for Clinton. But now that Bernie Sanders is in the race, things might get interesting. I am totally surprised that of all the comments here in this morning NYT, 99.9% are enthusiastic now about the election. Wonderful !!!
22
Bernie Sanders is the breath of fresh air needed in this fetid world of politics. Sending my donation this morning with understanding that every penny counts in times when billionaires hide behind citizens united to destroy democratic processes in America. "Democratic Socialist," absolutely !
16
Go Bernie, go!! We need a true "voice of the people" in this coming election. Hopefully Clinton will engage Sanders on the issues that effect everyone. If she doesn't, I think it will alienate some Democrats, like myself. Not that I wouldn't end up voting for Clinton in the general election, I just wouldn't like it.
13
THANK YOU! Nothing else to add.
17
Bernie Sanders
Change you can really believe in!
Change you can really believe in!
14
He represents those ideals the Democratic Party use to stand up for before money and the reluctance to take a stand on issues are now the norm. The people of the Green Mountain state love him because he cares and they know how he feels. He is in the race to force the issues to the front. I would not count this man out. He loves a good fight especially when it focuses on the issues.
446
This is great news for Hillary. Without a challenger, she risked a lethargic primary season.
3
Bernie Sanders voted NO on authorizing military force in Iraq in 2002. Hillary Clinton voted YES. The good Senator from Vermont has my vote.
47
I was struck when Mr. Sanders spoke of not running negative campaigns. That's what this nation needs, election that are a referendum on ideas and policies, not on individuals and personalities.
27
I'll vote for Hillary--gladly and with pride--but this guy would be heaven. He's correct about virtually everything (no one, except me of course, can be right all the time :-)) and he'll tell off the lying creeps every time it's needed. which is constantly, 24-7-365. The citizens of this country could flourish under Bernie but no one really wants that, faux protestations to the contrary. If the other guy is doing okay and the pie is finite, how can I be?
5
I had given up on supporting Democrats, but this is different news. News, I'm sure, the Democratic Party won't welcome. I'd love to see the people steal this race from the Party.
40
Yes I would too, but if you don't support Clinton in the general, you will be pulling a Ralph Nader. Please be realistic, and remember the power of the Supreme Court.
While there may be more important issues down the road, right now I would like to see a Democratic candidate who would be younger than 70 on Inauguration Day.
Age is not necessarily bad. Broad experience is a key asset. But it cannot be denied that the older one gets, no matter what one's health history is, the chance of problems escalates.
Age is not necessarily bad. Broad experience is a key asset. But it cannot be denied that the older one gets, no matter what one's health history is, the chance of problems escalates.
4
All he needs is eight years!
1
That's why we have vice presidents. I am willing to cross that bridge if and when we come to it. Sanders 2016
1
It's naive to think that Bernie Sanders can win without being in cohorts with Wall St., corporations and billionaires. As much as I'd love to see him suceed, it will take all of our efforts, millions of us, to wake up, lose the apathy, stop whining, and actively help the guy win. There's a reason Hillary is in bed with big oil, etc. She's being realistic.
10
Make that cahoots.
1
Income inequality, climate change, campaign finance? My donation is in the mail!
Why is it that no one else is willing to take a level-headed look at the mess we're in? These three issues are the most immediate and dangerous threats to our future.
Thanks for taking your platform national, Bernie. It's one of the very few things that gives me hope that our free society might survive. Go get 'em!
Why is it that no one else is willing to take a level-headed look at the mess we're in? These three issues are the most immediate and dangerous threats to our future.
Thanks for taking your platform national, Bernie. It's one of the very few things that gives me hope that our free society might survive. Go get 'em!
47
I don't think it's right to headline this "opposing Clinton".
He is running for President with a specific agenda of substantive issues he seeks to implement.
Elections should not be reported as if they were prize fights. Most of us are not interested in prize fights.
This is not about people or personalities, and should not be framed as Sanders being against Clinton, that is not what this is about.
I have heard him interviewed and baited with anti-Clinton questions, and he always says that this is not about individuals, it is about policy. The campaign should be reported with a focus on what Sanders is advocating.
He is running for President with a specific agenda of substantive issues he seeks to implement.
Elections should not be reported as if they were prize fights. Most of us are not interested in prize fights.
This is not about people or personalities, and should not be framed as Sanders being against Clinton, that is not what this is about.
I have heard him interviewed and baited with anti-Clinton questions, and he always says that this is not about individuals, it is about policy. The campaign should be reported with a focus on what Sanders is advocating.
214
I think they chose that headline because Sanders is running as a Democrat, not an Independent. So in primaries he will indeed be opposing Clinton, who was previously running unopposed.
I couldn't agree more! Thank you.
1
Great news but I fear his age might work against him Hope not
4
Yeah, he's got a whole 6 years on Clinton. He's ancient! I mean, with Clinton, at least you know you're getting someone who was born after the end of WWII. And, don't get me started on Bush, I'm surprised they actually let people who are under 65 run for office!
2
He is only 6 years older than HRC - average male life span is 82 years - In a tip of the hat to Ronald Reagan - Bernie Sanders should not allow the youth and inexperience of his rival become an issue in this race ;)
I am a registered republican but just donated to Sanders campaign. Pair him with a younger VP candidate (especially a female - E. Warren, are you listening ...) and his age would not be a factor. Im so sick of Washington, corruption, dishonesty, the 1% buying the elections - give me somebody with common sense - I don't care about his/her age.
The reason B. Saunders name is not well known - he does his job and isn't a narcissist. Even if he is a long shot, someone needs challenge HRC- The democratic party would be nuts to put all their faith in HRC - look how many skeletons have escaped from her closet and there are many months to go.
I am a registered republican but just donated to Sanders campaign. Pair him with a younger VP candidate (especially a female - E. Warren, are you listening ...) and his age would not be a factor. Im so sick of Washington, corruption, dishonesty, the 1% buying the elections - give me somebody with common sense - I don't care about his/her age.
The reason B. Saunders name is not well known - he does his job and isn't a narcissist. Even if he is a long shot, someone needs challenge HRC- The democratic party would be nuts to put all their faith in HRC - look how many skeletons have escaped from her closet and there are many months to go.
421
Ancient? How insulting. I do hope you are joking.
5
He can't win, but his voice needs to be heard. Income inequality is now a huge issue in American society and the root cause of what's going on in Baltimore and elsewhere. Getting the average American to realize our economy -- and, increasingly, our political system -- is run by an oligarchy would be the most patriotic thing a candidate could do, even if he doesn't win.
31
Vote for him and see!
1
Excited to hear this news, and went straight to Bernie's web page to offer support. Please, lets all give Bernie our support, as he is the only candidate willing to step up, talk about real issues, and progressively move us forward. We can do this, together. Thanks, Bernie!!!
61
It is high time that Bernie Sanders has announced and at this time and age in the history of this country needs as good wise man like him. Hope Senator Warren will join to support him and eventually become the VP. Hillary is nothing but a old bag lady with a ton of baggage , greed creed still collecting IOUs and with good old boy Bill for that facade of a so called charitable foundation, with its deferred taxes and all the money pouring in from foreign sources developed from Bill's 8 years in the HW and Hillary's 4 years as SOS. where she did zilch except of flying around with her private entourage and allocated aircraft, raking up miles, living high on the hog, get fat and growing old ungracefully. I am willing to contribute my $100. Plus add another $100. NYT please publish where where I can send a check or money order.
12
1
Finally, a social democrat who would represent the majority of Americans instead of only the very rich and big corporations.
Unfortunately, too many Americans are too dumb to vote in their own best interest. Only the rich and big corporations know to do that.
Unfortunately, too many Americans are too dumb to vote in their own best interest. Only the rich and big corporations know to do that.
55
It is primary time, so I would amend your statement to say that too many Democrats are too dumb to vote in their own best interest. It is the Democrats who will not nominate Bernie Sanders and will instead nominate the ethically challenged Clinton.
1
I like Mr. Sanders but it is a bit of chutzpah to run for the presidential nomination of a party which you are not even a member of nor, as far as I'm aware, have ever been a member of.
2
Bernie has tons of chutzpah! It's another reason he's so good. A clear conscience, true integrity, and passion, places the wind behind his sails.
2
Like Dwight Eisenhower?
He may be an Independent, but he sides with the Democrats.
Go Bernie, go! Somewhat disappointed that he is not running as the Independent that he IS. But if he gets to debate Hillary, and push her about her neoliberal positions, that might be productive.
29
The last thing we need is another third party candidate. Apparently, you've forgotten about John Anderson; Ross Perrot; and especially Ralph Nader.
Besides, Sanders is better off as a Democrat, as he sides with them anyway.
Besides, Sanders is better off as a Democrat, as he sides with them anyway.
Go for it, Bernie! Stir it up and expose Hillary for the lying, venal, corrupt hicks she and her husband are.
It is fitting that Bernie is from Vermont. Of lore, a place full of rugged, flinty, independent types, it is now hippie haven, producing such political stars as Jeffords-the-Confused, Patrick Leahy, and Sanders his own self.
It is fitting that Bernie is from Vermont. Of lore, a place full of rugged, flinty, independent types, it is now hippie haven, producing such political stars as Jeffords-the-Confused, Patrick Leahy, and Sanders his own self.
4
Um, Howard Dean?
Finally someone is running who can live up to ideals of what made America great...!
To other who may criticize him...instead of just using the "socialist" label as a negative connotation...do some research about his positions before passing judgment
Bernie has my vote (and my $100 donation)
To other who may criticize him...instead of just using the "socialist" label as a negative connotation...do some research about his positions before passing judgment
Bernie has my vote (and my $100 donation)
72
Agreed! This “Democratic socialist” grumpy grandmother-type will be supporting Bernie Sanders too.
another plus and not to be overlooked - he gets his message across to conservatives - he has gotten lots of conservative, right leaning vermonters to vote for him for almost two decades of statewide races - vermont is not all left - there are lots of deeply conservative rural voters here who have voted for sanders - and it's not that he didnt have opponents -
40
Vermont conservatives are still left of the south and midwest democrats. It's not saying much. Bernie is very liberal and will have a hard time carrying conservatives. Independents and even some libertarians are another story.
Unfortunately Bernie Sanders is an excellent politician who already has two strikes against him, possibly unfairly: his labels, and his age. Being labelled as a "socialist" already places him too far left for the bulk of the American electorate, and at 5 years older than Hillary, he would be the oldest person ever to assume the Presidency. The label issue is especially unfortunate, because Bernie's positions, at least as stated in today's NYTimes, are really center-left, and as such acceptable to many voters who would not vote for a "socialist." The age issue is beyond Mr. Sanders' control, but while ageism should never be a civil rights issue, it is a valid political one. I would love to see someone with Mr. Sanders' vision and opinions as President, but I am afraid I can't realistically see Mr. Sanders himself in that role.
48
We have allowed the right wing to make the word 'socialist' into a pejorative since probably the McCarthy days. Can we finally try to take it back? There's nothing wrong with being social, a part of society.
2
He isn't "being labelled" a socialist. He proudly applies that label to himself, because he knows what the term truly means. I think most Americans admire that sort of courage and straightforwardness.
It's certainly an interesting contrast to the self-described "libertarians" who seem to be nothing of the sort.
It's certainly an interesting contrast to the self-described "libertarians" who seem to be nothing of the sort.
2
Sanders is too far to the left? Nonsense. They said the same thing about George McGovern.
Take a serious unbiased look at his support for the elderly and veterans, as well as his work to create walk-in community health care centers that reduce costs for both the individual and society, without new taxes. A lot of what he actually does is in the Republican Party rhetoric, it's just that they don't mean what they say, and Bernie does.
If you're a Republican over the age of 60, Bernie is actually more in line with what you think of as "republican" than the current crop of Republicans. If your annual income is less than $200k, and you're not a white male between the ages of 25-55, Bernie will represent your interests better than any other candidate yet in the mix.
If you're a Republican over the age of 60, Bernie is actually more in line with what you think of as "republican" than the current crop of Republicans. If your annual income is less than $200k, and you're not a white male between the ages of 25-55, Bernie will represent your interests better than any other candidate yet in the mix.
77
I love this guy, and I love what he's doing ... placing himself in the ring, not to win, he's knows he doesn't have a chance (because money rules), but to keep the campaign discourse in touch with reality. This guy really cares. He's the voice of reason we need. I thank you Mr. Sanders. We should all thank him.
32
you should VOTE for him!
In the world of Frank Capra, guys like Bernie Sanders could be president. The times are so perilous lthat I'm ready to believe he can! Someone has to stand up and say, no more. The Gilded Age must end. I'll be in Iowa for Bernie, count on it.
77
So happy he is running. Like Ron Paul, he has never deviated from his principles and he is not bought by the aristocracy. We need his voice.
27
Regardless of how credible a candidate he is, it's good that Sanders has declared—imagine Clinton being nominated and then going into debates against the Republican challenger with no practice since 2008!
3
I am thrilled Sanders is running. I would have also liked to see Warren throw her hat into the race, but Sanders running should help to really up the level of discourse. I hope he goes after HRC and HARD on the issues. I also hope it helps people realize that 'socialism' is not some scary idea where everything is free and freedom is taken away. That's not what it is. Alas, most Americans have never even researched the various socialist parties and platforms around the world so have this ignorant knee jerk reaction to the very word. It should be helpful to have a candidate who goes against unbridled capitalism and entitlement programs for the wealthy (the social security tax, for example, and how it weighs disproportionately on the middle class).
21
I'm delighted to hear Mr. Sanders is running. I don't think he has a chance to win but I'm hoping he might drag Ms. Clinton a bit to the left. It would be nice to have an actual liberal in the mix for a change instead of Republican Lite which we've had for more than two decades.
And I just plain like Mr. Sanders. I like his ideas and I like his positions. I'm realistic enough to know he can't win in the general election. Big Business wouldn't have it. They'd eviscerate him. If they couldn't find anything bad they'd make it up and repeat it and repeat it until it became part of the narrative in the electorate's mind.
Welcome Mr. Sanders. Know that many of us are pleased to see you enter the race.
And I just plain like Mr. Sanders. I like his ideas and I like his positions. I'm realistic enough to know he can't win in the general election. Big Business wouldn't have it. They'd eviscerate him. If they couldn't find anything bad they'd make it up and repeat it and repeat it until it became part of the narrative in the electorate's mind.
Welcome Mr. Sanders. Know that many of us are pleased to see you enter the race.
13
If you like him, put your mind as well as your heart behind him.
Defeatist thinking means that you won't tell your friends and family about your support for Sanders, it means that you won't make any efforts on your own behalf to get him elected.
What we think we can do, we will do.
We will get Bernie elected- they said Obama was a long-shot too.
Defeatist thinking means that you won't tell your friends and family about your support for Sanders, it means that you won't make any efforts on your own behalf to get him elected.
What we think we can do, we will do.
We will get Bernie elected- they said Obama was a long-shot too.
A candidate who brings common sense to the TPP topic is highly vote-worthy.
16
Finally an adult wiling to treat voters as adults. This is going to be interesting!
54
I'll give this guy a chance and will vote for him if Warren will not run. I don't see Hillary fighting for the same issues that Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders are fiercely fighting for.
28
Given that the likelihood of a Socialist being elected U.S. president is basically zero (I like Bernie Sanders; I am just commenting on his electability), one wonders if the Democrats are simply putting up a competitor to give the impression that there is a real primary run-off.
I wonder if Hillary Clinton will agree to a primary debate with Bernie Sanders...
4
The more "realistic"a candidate's chances are, the less difference they will make if elected. Go,Bernie!
21
Well put, Vince, well put!
2
Even Bernie the hero of liberalism and justice did not have the courage to denounce Israel's murderous bombing campaign in Gaza. So we already know he, too, will dance to AIPAC's tune; that there will be no peace in the Middle East.
Elizabeth Warren didn't have that courage either.
And we already know Hillary will say anything necessary to win. So Bernie "pushing her to the left" on issues will be a debate and PR stance--which will fade like the mist if she were to be elected.
This probably just guaranteed Jeb's victory, since non-Coastal moderates are seriously unlikely to vote for Bernie. So he will indeed serve as spoiler to Hillary. That's fine with me. No politician of this generation has true moral courage; none deserves my vote.
Elizabeth Warren didn't have that courage either.
And we already know Hillary will say anything necessary to win. So Bernie "pushing her to the left" on issues will be a debate and PR stance--which will fade like the mist if she were to be elected.
This probably just guaranteed Jeb's victory, since non-Coastal moderates are seriously unlikely to vote for Bernie. So he will indeed serve as spoiler to Hillary. That's fine with me. No politician of this generation has true moral courage; none deserves my vote.
2
Have no problem with Israelis being killed, huh? Moral courage indeed.
What worries me is that Bernie is 73. While I wish him another 100 years of great health, I would like to see a new, young generation of liberal political leaders taking over his important fight.
I wish more young people woke up from their smart-phone induced torpor and got into active politics. And I wish that those young people who actually are "awake" do not waste their time with violent protests and pointless "black block" demonstrations at G8 meetings, but get themselves into active politics to CHANGE the system. Bernie needs support. We need more people like Bernie.
I wish more young people woke up from their smart-phone induced torpor and got into active politics. And I wish that those young people who actually are "awake" do not waste their time with violent protests and pointless "black block" demonstrations at G8 meetings, but get themselves into active politics to CHANGE the system. Bernie needs support. We need more people like Bernie.
8
Sanders might be the type of catalyst folks need. Younger folks are disillusioned and don't want to waste their time caring about the unchangeable. Bernie offers a chance to reverse the cynicism.
Today is a great day for America! Bernie's issues are OUR issues. He is one of US. If we are smart enough to elect him we have a good chance of regaining our democracy - the democracy we lost when the Supreme Court selected Geroge W. Bush and "enacted" - I can't think of a better word - Citizens United. Tim Carpenter, founder of Progressive Democrats of America had a dying wish - that Bernie Sanders would run for president as a Democrat. I wish he were here to celebrate this moment but I know he is there watching and grinning. "Onward!" "Teamwork" We're going to do our best to elect him, Tim. Rest in Peace.
9
President Sanders!!!!!!!
10
"Mr. Sanders, an independent senator from Vermont, will inject a leftist voice into the contest and provide Hillary Rodham Clinton with her first official challenger."
I wonder how Bernie Sanders, who is an Independent all of a sudden became a leftist? I have heard many of his arguments in favor of economic fairness, against the panopticon that is the Modern American Security State, and he does seem to think that environmental costs must be taken into consideration in all discussions of development, but those ideas are far from the inclination to Marxism, which we ordinarily associate with the left.
True President Obama thinks that Bernie is a member of the Professional Left, but then President Obama has after the use of populist rhetoric often moved to the right of his Republican Opponents, and on the TPP he has veered to the right again.
Is he a leftist because he is not a member of the Goldman Sachs Faction of the Democrat Party birthed by the Clintons and pretty much owned by the socially useless Money Banks? In Economics to be other than an Austrian Primitive, more Keynesian with a touch of the Modern Money Theory orientation, does that make Bernie a lefty?
Today I think that anyone who isn't radically dedicated to K Street Pandering may be considered a leftist in some circles, and that would probably be neoliberal circles in which both Parties are heavily represented. So Bernie is not already owned by The Lobby, he must be a lefty? Is that how it works today?
I wonder how Bernie Sanders, who is an Independent all of a sudden became a leftist? I have heard many of his arguments in favor of economic fairness, against the panopticon that is the Modern American Security State, and he does seem to think that environmental costs must be taken into consideration in all discussions of development, but those ideas are far from the inclination to Marxism, which we ordinarily associate with the left.
True President Obama thinks that Bernie is a member of the Professional Left, but then President Obama has after the use of populist rhetoric often moved to the right of his Republican Opponents, and on the TPP he has veered to the right again.
Is he a leftist because he is not a member of the Goldman Sachs Faction of the Democrat Party birthed by the Clintons and pretty much owned by the socially useless Money Banks? In Economics to be other than an Austrian Primitive, more Keynesian with a touch of the Modern Money Theory orientation, does that make Bernie a lefty?
Today I think that anyone who isn't radically dedicated to K Street Pandering may be considered a leftist in some circles, and that would probably be neoliberal circles in which both Parties are heavily represented. So Bernie is not already owned by The Lobby, he must be a lefty? Is that how it works today?
12
Think of the term 'left' as being relative to the other candidates.
He brings local expertise in maple syrup, heroin and leaves to a national stage
1
He's going to have a hard time with the Democratic machine and their insistence that Hillary is somehow entitled to the presidency this time around. The dismissive comment of Adam Green quoted in the article is a good example of what he's up against. He's got a lot of people's support, from those fed up by politics as usual, and he has proven himself.
As a grumpy grandmotherly type, I welcome my political soulmate to the race. It is my sincere hope that he will force discussions of the type of issues that have been given short shrift over the years. He may not have the international creds that HRC has, but he is certainly up to date on what those involements have cost the American public and it's infrastructure.
42
I expect to see some pressures on Elizabeth Warren to jump ship and endorse Sanders, though I expect her to stick with Clinton.
The current polling data in New Hampshire is interesting. Three different polling organizations produced roughly identical results during March and April. Clinton receives the support of just 45-47% of Democrats polled; Warren comes in at about 23%, and Sanders gets about 12%. (http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2016/president/nh/new_hampshire_... Not all of Warren's supporters will move to Sanders, of course, but the prospects are there for Sanders to win perhaps 40% of the vote in New Hampshire. That would have to be considered a setback for Clinton who won New Hampshire in 2008, though with only 39% of the primary vote.
Eugene McCarthy won just 42% of the vote in New Hampshire to Lyndon Johnson's 50%. That was sufficiently humiliating for a sitting President that LBJ withdrew from the race soon thereafter. I don't see Hillary withdrawing if she does relatively poorly in New Hampshire, but it could be a "wake-up call." I expect to see her surrogates start talking about Sanders as a "regional" candidate if he holds his own in New Hampshire.
The current polling data in New Hampshire is interesting. Three different polling organizations produced roughly identical results during March and April. Clinton receives the support of just 45-47% of Democrats polled; Warren comes in at about 23%, and Sanders gets about 12%. (http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2016/president/nh/new_hampshire_... Not all of Warren's supporters will move to Sanders, of course, but the prospects are there for Sanders to win perhaps 40% of the vote in New Hampshire. That would have to be considered a setback for Clinton who won New Hampshire in 2008, though with only 39% of the primary vote.
Eugene McCarthy won just 42% of the vote in New Hampshire to Lyndon Johnson's 50%. That was sufficiently humiliating for a sitting President that LBJ withdrew from the race soon thereafter. I don't see Hillary withdrawing if she does relatively poorly in New Hampshire, but it could be a "wake-up call." I expect to see her surrogates start talking about Sanders as a "regional" candidate if he holds his own in New Hampshire.
1
I look forward to Bernie Sanders and Martin O'Malley giving the Democrats some other choices besides Hillary Clinton. Good luck to both of them!
12
I have never understood Americans’ propensity for conceding the battle in the name of practicality and political realism. Democracy is pointless unless people vote for what they believe in. Accepting that any one candidate might not stand for everything one wants does not equate with giving in to a candidate who stands for none of it.
Hillary Clinton is not a Democrat. In fact she is not even a Republican. She is a “Clintonist.” Her rudder is ambition; she polls the winds and will seemingly say whatever she thinks she has to be at the moment. She cannot be “nudged” to the left anymore than one can nudge jelly anywhere.
She serves Big Money because Big Money fuels her ambition.
Bernie Sanders is not a “socialist.” He does not disavow the capitalistic system. He is an old style social democrat who believes in making the system more equitable and decent for ordinary people. He is a “socialist” only in the sense that he believes society should have a social purpose. If Americans can’t get behind that they might as well feed themselves to ravenous beasts.
Hillary Clinton is not a Democrat. In fact she is not even a Republican. She is a “Clintonist.” Her rudder is ambition; she polls the winds and will seemingly say whatever she thinks she has to be at the moment. She cannot be “nudged” to the left anymore than one can nudge jelly anywhere.
She serves Big Money because Big Money fuels her ambition.
Bernie Sanders is not a “socialist.” He does not disavow the capitalistic system. He is an old style social democrat who believes in making the system more equitable and decent for ordinary people. He is a “socialist” only in the sense that he believes society should have a social purpose. If Americans can’t get behind that they might as well feed themselves to ravenous beasts.
189
Please take your well-crafted message to the streets, friend, wherever you are. Folks need to hear it.
2
Finally--a candidate with integrity! Thank you for running, Senator Sanders!
48
Good for him for running. Good for him for engaging in what should be a vigorous conversation with Mrs. Clinton and the other eventual primary candidates.
And good for him for bowing out when the time is right and throwing his full support behind the eventual nominee. I think the last thing Sen Sanders would want is to be another Ralph Nader or Ross Perot, siphoning votes away from the Democrat candidate in the General and giving the WH to the Republicans.
And good for him for bowing out when the time is right and throwing his full support behind the eventual nominee. I think the last thing Sen Sanders would want is to be another Ralph Nader or Ross Perot, siphoning votes away from the Democrat candidate in the General and giving the WH to the Republicans.
5
if he bows out i'll just write him in.
1
Ralph Nader and Ross Perot ran as third party candidates. In choosing to run as a Democrat and not an Independent, Senator Sanders has made it impossible to be a spoiler. Either he defeats Hillary in the Democratic primary, or he doesn't, but his candidacy cannot take votes away from her in the general election. Mr. Sanders is realistic, and he cares about this country.
1
I just worry that Mr. Sanders will take votes away from Hillary and that might turn the election to the Republicans. I keep imagining a Rep. Congress, a Rep. Supreme court, and a Rep. president!! what will happen to the rest of us ordinary Americans who worked hard for our money and fear a roll-back of all the helpful benefits from our states and federal government. Still, perhaps Mr. Sanders who I could easily support might push Hillary toward some more important values. And hopefully so would Bill. Mainly I'd like to get rid of those lobbyists who seem to run our government since Congress doesn't really do the hard work of researching issues. And they take the lobbyists money. At least, keep those war-hawks like Mccain et al from sending our children to fight in the Mid East. We can protect our country without getting any more involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and the rest. Keep vigilant and deal harshly with young Americans who feel they need to join these dangerous Muslims willing to kill themselves and everyone else.
5
There is no difference between the Democrats and Republicans any more. They are all bought and paid for by big money. The neo-liberal Democrats are just as anxious as the Republicans to roll back government programs. As for Hillary, she's just as much a war hawk as McCain and even more beholden to the Wall Street. The only major difference I can see is the Republicans fawning at the Christian Right.
1
I am for Mr. Sanders 100% and will vote for him in the primaries, but C Hope, that difference you list between the Clintonian Democrats and Republicans IS a big difference, especially to women, minorities, gays, and union members. Imagine the Court wit Ginsburg or Stevens replaced by a Cruz or Walker nominee (or BOTH replaced, God forbid). Think about the 5-4 decisions on gay marriage, choice, law enforcement issues, and union issues, etc. suddenly going the other way. The Court is a big, big deal, and don't forget it.
1
Glad to see Bernie injecting a little left to the painfully middle-of-the-road Hillary campaign. Unfortunately his candidacy might unleash our humorless Mayor into thinking he has a chance at the nomination, not to mention that slippery guy in Albany who is, in no way, his father.
6
Bernie had better get himself on the David Letterman show before Dave signs off in a month.
10
The Power Elite dislike Bernie because he actually creates a discussion that maybe things can be different than the status quo. Take away the money of the billionaire supported candidates and have a real debate on the issues.
39
Are Bernie's stances just "popular with the left?" I suspect that if they are subject to widespread, straightforward reporting without labels they may not be.
44
Although Eliz. Warren would be a more formidable candidate, I have to go with someone who has entered the arena and who is to the left of Clinton. It is hard to think of any issue where Sanders has voiced his opinion on which I disagree.
17
I will vote for Bernie over a Clinton or a Bush.
40
It's a shame, and a sad commentary on this country, that an honest, independent and progressively-minded person like Bernie Sanders can, at best, be a fringe candidate. And even on the remote chance that he is elected, it's doubtful that he (or any single officeholder) could overcome the inertia of the system.
We are so many light years away from any kind of meaningful change that it's hard to be hopeful it will ever come about, at least without something disastrous and painful preceding it. I welcome his intelligent voice into the debate, but I don't expect much to come of it, other than a siphoning of support for the Democratic candidate, who will, unfortunately, be our best hope against the Republican insanity.
We are so many light years away from any kind of meaningful change that it's hard to be hopeful it will ever come about, at least without something disastrous and painful preceding it. I welcome his intelligent voice into the debate, but I don't expect much to come of it, other than a siphoning of support for the Democratic candidate, who will, unfortunately, be our best hope against the Republican insanity.
13
Not so long ago, a youngish black senator was a fringe candidate...We will do what we say we can do. We CAN get Sanders elected!
I'm wondering: isn't your description of Sanders as a "grumpy grandfather-type" ageism? Hillary Clinton, famously, is a newly-minted grandparent. I haven't seen the Times describe her as a "grumpy-grandmother type." What do you think?
20
I've never contributed to a political campaign, since my $100 is meaningless for the candidates supported by billionaires and hosting $10,000 a plate fundraising dinners.
Bernie is different. His heart and mind are in the right place. The Republicans may laugh him off, but Hillary better be listening. There's still a large contingent in the Democratic wing of the Democratic party.
I'll be sending Bernie a check today.
Bernie is different. His heart and mind are in the right place. The Republicans may laugh him off, but Hillary better be listening. There's still a large contingent in the Democratic wing of the Democratic party.
I'll be sending Bernie a check today.
106
Excellent.
Webb/Sanders or Sanders/Webb would be a better
combination than any major party ticket in decades...
Webb/Sanders or Sanders/Webb would be a better
combination than any major party ticket in decades...
6
How's about Bernie Sanders and Barney Frank?
6
In 2008 I made the largest donation to a political campaign in my life (More then if you add up all of my political campaign donations in my life); 7 years later I promised myself I would never do that again. But if this guy is as intelligent and progressive as he sounds, I may need to brake my promise! Further, I have this lingering feeling that the "Clinton triangulation-political analytics train" could go off the rails at any moment, when some seriously damaging "situation" becomes public. Democrats need a plan B, C...
11
Bernie Sanders is a man of integrity who is not afraid to say what he thinks without first running 10 opinion polls or pandering to some radical base. I bet there's nothing in his email that wouldn't stand up to public scrutiny.
64
I always find it amusing that Sanders refers to himself as an Independent!
1
Rose - The real purpose of political parties is control and power. They are not formed in the interest of better government or to serve the people. Unfortunately far to often voters who define themselves as Republicans or Democrats have become lazy and stop thinking for themselves but merely espouse the party line. Too frequently they are unacquainted with the real merits and detriments of the issues at hand. Parties are bad for the country; and no matter where you are on the political spectrum it would be better if you were determined to remain independent.
1
Why? Just how progressive has the Democratic Party been in the last 10 years or so? It's more like the true liberals (E. Warren, e.g.) are acting on their own rather than with the support of their party.
2
How so? Is this a tangential dig at Bernie? If so, don't k ow much about Bernie, do we?
"I am a socialist."
And everything should be free!
And everything should be free!
5
You should go hear him speak in person, you might have more in common with him then you think. At least someone discussing the issues rather than just blowing a lot of rhetorical smoke funded by the rich and powerful.
You may not agree with him, but at least you know where he stands.
You may not agree with him, but at least you know where he stands.
30
Starting with a knee-jerk caricature is not the best way to consider Mr. Sanders. And as for "everything should be free"...actually, there are ways to pay for public goods and quasi-public goods so all can benefit from them. You see that happening with defense spending and police: it is called taxes. The difference for a socialist is that he is willing to spend on roads, railways, clean air, health care, child care, education, retirement benefits, ports, airports, etc. The basic needs of individuals are considered. They are willing to tax the rich, and to tax estates. It is a different paradigm for how a civil society might operate, but it is not for free. It would be great if it was...but that is impossible.
2
Ready to give up your Social Security, Medicare, paved roads, food inspections, Weather Service?
Have yet to meet a market capitalist that didn't believe in zoning laws.
Have yet to meet a market capitalist that didn't believe in zoning laws.
7
I'm so glad Bernie is running! And as for him being a "grumpy grandfather type" I would say NYT: please be accurate instead of merely alliterative! Bernie is not "grumpy" and Hilary, as you know, is touting herself as a grandmother.
65
yeah....let's stop all the ageism in the media...NYTimes get with it...
I donated to Mr Sanders via his web site last night. And is a first for me I volunteered to help the campaign. (Btw he needs various areas of help, listed at the site.) I figure if he is in debates it's going to make all the difference, and even if he loses I'll meet fantastic people helping him run. I liked the theme too: "Paid for by Bernie 2016 (Not the billionaires)"
https://berniesanders.com/
https://berniesanders.com/
227
Thanks for the link! Just made a donation!
6
Thank you CK I am going to follow through and make my contribution within the hour.
5
thanks for posting the website. I immediately contributed...
3
Bernie makes his concerns known. He's not poll-testing before speaking out. I appreciate that about him.
The other candidate has not laid out any platforms. She (and pundits) will be shocked when that calculating approach does NOT work. I'm pretty certain The Presidential Prize will elude her.
The other candidate has not laid out any platforms. She (and pundits) will be shocked when that calculating approach does NOT work. I'm pretty certain The Presidential Prize will elude her.
60
Give 'em hell, Bernie!
213
This is what I wanted to hear. I was born in Georgia and spent most of my working life in Tennessee (43 years) but never accepted red state ideas. Now, thank God, I am in a blue state. I will be one of his small donors. Wish that I had the Kochs' money but not "earned" the way they did. Bernie will not be the Democratic nominee for president. But I sure hope that Hilary has to respond to his ideas.
41
If you read the "Bernie Sanders on the Issues" column that links from this story, you will see that there is nothing "radical" about Bernie Sanders! He's a normal, rational person who, like many of us, can't stand the irrationality of politics these days. He wants equal rights for everyone, to take care of the environment and not go into endless wars. What's crazy about that? What's crazy is NOT supporting these things!
1287
It is radical, because none of these positions profits corporations in any way.
5
In large swathes of the U.S., rational is radical.
5
He would be a terrific president not in the pocket of the money makers. Therefore, we will never see him as president. We have a corrupt election system, mired in special interests. It is a disgrace to democracy. But let Bernie loose and see the Democrats slide towards progressiveness. He is a breath of truth. We need Bernie and Elizabeth Warren fighting for us since nobody else is.
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All the money in the world can't stop a candidate IF people would just pay attention and get out and vote, instead of allowing themselves to be turned into " all candidates are the same" cynics by negative ads and gaffe- focused reporting that ignores positions on the issues.
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"He would be a terrific president not in the pocket of the money makers. Therefore, we will never see him as president."
Right. We should probably not even try.
Right. We should probably not even try.
@Lynn... Exactly! Cynicism like that displayed by our friend above from NM will never get the job done. We do what we say we can.
1
AWESOME!!!! Best news I've heard in ages. Bernie is the kind of person we need in the White House. Three questions: Where can I send my donation? Where can I get my "Bernie Sanders 2016" bumper sticker? Will he consider Elizabeth Warren as his Vice President? What a ticket that would be!!
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The country would never elect a ticket with both candidates from New England, that bastion of LIBERALISM!!! Rep. Joaquin Castro, TX, would be an excellent running mate. He's a bit conservative so can't be labeled with the socialist, liberal, progressive tag that is so toxic in the more conservative states. A bit inexperienced but a lot smarter than any of the clowns running in the Republican clown party.
And Dennis Cussinich as treasury secretary....
Good news. I like Mr. Sanders, and also like Hillary Clinton. I appreciate "Sanders on the Issues" just under the announcement - because that's what we're looking for, but I believe that was missing when Mrs. Clinton announced? Or was it hidden somewhere I was not smart enough to find it, and/or morphed into all the subsequent muckraking? I feel the paper is getting kind of subjective and messy in how it puts forth candidates perspectives on issues.
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Count me in, Bernie. As an aging lefty, I would not, under any circumstances, vote for HRC.
14
After the announcement, I made my first political donation to his campaign. If you believe in his views, I urge you to do the same.
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I share the enthusiasm for his positions getting voiced because I agree with him that privileges for the wealthy need to be replaced with programs for the many. I don't know if he has the foreign policy or administrative experience that I want in a candidate. Would he have the coattails to bring a sympathetic congress with him? I am also suspect of candidates who have never been vetted by the national press.
I hope Hillary will move toward the left as a result of his entry. She does have the experience I am looking for, I just need her to free herself from the sirens of Wall Street.
I hope Hillary will move toward the left as a result of his entry. She does have the experience I am looking for, I just need her to free herself from the sirens of Wall Street.
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A person who has not let Washington corrupt him. A person who puts the people first. It is no s`mall wonder he has served as long as he has in Vermont. He did not need PACs to get him elected he earned it by working for the people.
Yes; he is a long shot. But, he will certainly shake up the race. Imagine him in the Democratic debates? Imagine him, if he gets nominated and in the presidential debates? This is what the country needs, someone to call out our self serving, millionaire backing political system.
You got my vote.
Yes; he is a long shot. But, he will certainly shake up the race. Imagine him in the Democratic debates? Imagine him, if he gets nominated and in the presidential debates? This is what the country needs, someone to call out our self serving, millionaire backing political system.
You got my vote.
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Without Bernie (so far) would there BE any debates in the primary?
1
Where do I contribute to his campaign?
8
What a great contrast the Democratic debates will be compared to the Republican pledge-week line-up! Instead of a score of dimwits struggling to prove their uber-dimness over the others so as to satisfy "the base"--comprising the dimmest of the dim and the dumbest of the dumb--Hillary and Bernie and maybe O'Malley and others will actually discuss issues and challenge one another's ideas and plans for the good of the nation. Imagine: grownups talking as if voters were grownups, too!
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Go Bernie go.
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Bernie Sanders' message has been consistent for decades; he's not one to stand on the issue-of-the-week, just to raise his numbers. For Bernie, it's not a popularity contest. It's about the issues that affect the majority of Americans. He is the antithesis of a movie-star candidate. This will take some getting used to for many voters, but if people take the time to listen to his policies they will realize that he is not so radical after all. He might actually be exactly what America needs at this point—some strong medicine.
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Bernie Sanders from Vermont running for President (while his brother Larry runs for Parliament in the UK, across the pond) - what great news! Running as a Democrat and not an independent. Senator Bernie's grassroots base is thrilled to tears. Go, Bernie, go!
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Sanders is 73 years old and would be 74 on taking office. I wonder if all those progressives who said Ronald Reagan was too old to start his first term at age 70 will say the same about Sanders?
2
That was over 30 years ago. 73 is the new 63!
1
Go Bernie Go!
It's time we on the Left get a candidate to cheer for. It's time that we on the left get to Participate.
If nothing else, it shows that our country really isn't just Center-Right (Obama/Cinton), Right (Bush), and wacko Far Right (Rubio, Cruz, Walker, Perry, rest of clown car).
There really is a way to improve the deficit and debt , and its not increasing War Spending, Lowering Taxes, and then crushing the Poor. Bernie's Progressive Budget can show people how, and his Candidacy is a way to bring attention to it.
It's time to show America what "the Left" really looks like. And no, it's not a Pro-War Corporatist like Obama, B Clinton or H Clinton.
I'm overjoyed. I've written in Bernie Sanders for President for as long as I can remember. Finally I'll get to put a check in a box with his name by it instead.
It's time we on the Left get a candidate to cheer for. It's time that we on the left get to Participate.
If nothing else, it shows that our country really isn't just Center-Right (Obama/Cinton), Right (Bush), and wacko Far Right (Rubio, Cruz, Walker, Perry, rest of clown car).
There really is a way to improve the deficit and debt , and its not increasing War Spending, Lowering Taxes, and then crushing the Poor. Bernie's Progressive Budget can show people how, and his Candidacy is a way to bring attention to it.
It's time to show America what "the Left" really looks like. And no, it's not a Pro-War Corporatist like Obama, B Clinton or H Clinton.
I'm overjoyed. I've written in Bernie Sanders for President for as long as I can remember. Finally I'll get to put a check in a box with his name by it instead.
40
Bernie Sanders is a man of principle, a rare thing in politics. He can't be bought. He supports income equality and fairness, a decent minimum wage, ridding politics of the corrupt influence of money and power, fortifying our safety net programs, and reducing our foreign interventions. His focus is on the people of the U.S.A., not pleasing a moneyed constituency. Also, he is not Johnny-come-lately. He has worked for many years on the side of the common man/woman. What a refreshing change from the status quo. Go Bernie!
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I am glad that he is running. The liberal point of view on issues will be covered, some should make the Party platform, and Hillary can graciously accept when Bernie throws his support to her after she wins the nomination. That will allow Hillary to remain in the center, where she will need to be to win in this FOX influenced country.
4
Senator Bernie Sanders is no spoiler, and he is no Ralph Nader. What he is is a welcome response to the sense of entitlement that surrounds Ms. Clinton. She may very well win the nomination, but at least she will now have to fight for it.
43
Excellent. We all saw what a strong challenge from the Left did to the Democratic Party in 1980!
3
Of course, Jimmy Carter's lousy presidency had nothing to do with his defeat in 1980. It was all Ted Kennedy's fault.
1
I love Bernie Sanders! A candidate with true Democratic principles and NOT beholding to Wall Street! Bernie, you have $100 of my money on its way to you!
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I thought I might have to sit this next election out. I will not vote for Hillary and I certainly will not vote for any Republican candidate. I will seriously consider voting for Mr. Sanders.
10
Way to go Bernie, thank you.
Problem here is that Obama had high hopes for the country. He even managed to get elected...............and with our obstructionist Republicans, nothing much has been accomplished. How would it be different if Bernie were to get elected?
Good luck to you Bernie and God Bless.
Problem here is that Obama had high hopes for the country. He even managed to get elected...............and with our obstructionist Republicans, nothing much has been accomplished. How would it be different if Bernie were to get elected?
Good luck to you Bernie and God Bless.
10
People have to be inspired and get out to vote for Democrats up and down the ticket, in national, state, and local elections.
Otherwise, as you say, obstructionist Republicans will gerrymander, block, and undermine even the most well intentioned leader.
A difference between Sanders and Obama is that Sanders will call Republican obstruction out right away, while it seems to have taken Obama until last Saturday at the WHC dinner, at the point when his anger translator finally no longer was needed....
Otherwise, as you say, obstructionist Republicans will gerrymander, block, and undermine even the most well intentioned leader.
A difference between Sanders and Obama is that Sanders will call Republican obstruction out right away, while it seems to have taken Obama until last Saturday at the WHC dinner, at the point when his anger translator finally no longer was needed....
2
A valid question, but one which applies to any Democratic candidate, and likely more so to Mrs. Clinton.
1
Finally a challenger to Hillary Clinton, the anointed queen of the Democrats. He has my vote, if Schummer doesn't figure out a way to keep his name off the ballot.
11
How would Schumer keep Sanders off the ballot? He's running as a Democrat, not as a third party candidate. He is also running smart and not as a spoiler like Ralph Nader. It is good for Hillary Clinton to have some challengers and debates. This will give the voters who wish to be informed an insight to what her political agenda is. Debate will be good for the Democratic party and good for the country no matter who is the ultimate candidate for president.
1
At last a reason for some excitement and inspiration in the long slog to the next presidential election. If for no other reason than to remind Hillary what we really are looking for. Go Bernie and thank you!
29
Game on! Let's hope the media affords Bernie the same respect they give candidates such as Rubio and Paul, or is it only the right wing that gets balanced coverage?
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If Bernie was as far left wing as Rubio and Paul are right wing, he'd be calling for the complete destruction of the capitalist system.
1
Bernie, if you were only a younger candidate, you would have my vote in a heart beat...
2
Hillary is not young either, so your other option, if you prefer younger candidates, would be Rubio, Walker Ted Cruz and Bush.
Please rethink your position. 73 is no longer particularly old. Four years of Bernie could be transformational. Or even 8 if he is still going strong at the end of his first term.
1
What good news! Fresh air has entered the political arena. My faith in the democratic system has been restored. You are a courageous man, Senator Sanders.
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"My faith in the democratic system has been restored."
Good news indeed.
The "system" in general, though, is a long way from democratic, however.
The system, at present, seems to be geared to ensuring that no candidate not fully vetted by the corporate PTB will ever receive a major party nomination.
And that in the unlikely event an unapproved nominee somehow slips in anyway that their opponent *will* be acceptable and the process be manipulable enough to ensure the victory of the .1%-approved candidate.
Looking at likely candidates in the whole Demopublican field, there are few that the corporatocracy would have serious qualms about: Sanders, Jim Webb and possibly, Rand Paul - for the rest of us, the presence of all three of them in primaries can only be positive.
The last thing the country, and particularly the Democrats need are any
more "coronations". You'd have thought we'd settled that with George the
Third...
Good news indeed.
The "system" in general, though, is a long way from democratic, however.
The system, at present, seems to be geared to ensuring that no candidate not fully vetted by the corporate PTB will ever receive a major party nomination.
And that in the unlikely event an unapproved nominee somehow slips in anyway that their opponent *will* be acceptable and the process be manipulable enough to ensure the victory of the .1%-approved candidate.
Looking at likely candidates in the whole Demopublican field, there are few that the corporatocracy would have serious qualms about: Sanders, Jim Webb and possibly, Rand Paul - for the rest of us, the presence of all three of them in primaries can only be positive.
The last thing the country, and particularly the Democrats need are any
more "coronations". You'd have thought we'd settled that with George the
Third...
1
He's got my vote!
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What I wouldn't give to see him debate ANY of the Republicans.
That said, I could just as easily live with ( the prospect of) a Clinton/Sanders ticket.
If he's nothing else, Bernie Sanders is unquestionably the "smartest man in the room (along with Robert Reich- whom I'd rather see than Elizabeth Warren as Sanders' running
mate, if it comes to that).
That said, I could just as easily live with ( the prospect of) a Clinton/Sanders ticket.
If he's nothing else, Bernie Sanders is unquestionably the "smartest man in the room (along with Robert Reich- whom I'd rather see than Elizabeth Warren as Sanders' running
mate, if it comes to that).
38
Love Bernie, but the country is not ready for this passionate and intelligent person to lead them. Not to mention the problem of raising money from corporate donors. Get rid of Citizens United and a good person like Bernie could have a shot at being president.
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We need passion and intelligence more than ever.
16
Wholeheartedly disagree...country not ready? This country is crying out for some honesty, dirty-money free politics. Argue the issues, ignore the slogans and Bernie is a breath of fresh air. Whether he wins or not, he will ignite the many who feel the race is already over with HRC bestowed the nomination. Passion and intelligence is sorely needed in the 2016 race, not gobs of corporate & .01% bribery. If you love Bernie, support him now...the wheel is turning.
23
"Get rid of Citizens United and a good person like Bernie could have a shot at being president."
That's exactly why none of the current corporate puppets in the House, Senate, and various governor offices are not clamoring to get rid of it. They know they wouldn't stand a chance without some billionaire backers to promote their lies about the future and hide their lies from the past.
That's exactly why none of the current corporate puppets in the House, Senate, and various governor offices are not clamoring to get rid of it. They know they wouldn't stand a chance without some billionaire backers to promote their lies about the future and hide their lies from the past.
15
The challenge & the choice is ours - We The People. Each of us can refuse to let our vote be bought by billionaires & remember that We The People outnumber the 1%.
As for Clinton, it'll take We The People to reject Hillary Clinton's characteristic dishonesties ("follow the money"). Clinton has never been the People's Choice.
Bernie Sanders & Elizabeth Warren are not just challenging Clinton, they're challenging us - We The People - to join what Bernie calls a "political revolution". His courage must be matched by our own.
As for Clinton, it'll take We The People to reject Hillary Clinton's characteristic dishonesties ("follow the money"). Clinton has never been the People's Choice.
Bernie Sanders & Elizabeth Warren are not just challenging Clinton, they're challenging us - We The People - to join what Bernie calls a "political revolution". His courage must be matched by our own.
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I donated to Bernie via his website last night. That said, your, "We the People" bombast is embarrassing and lame. Can't you simple approach politics like an adult? Everybody is the people, and plenty of them are republicans.
6
"As for Clinton, it'll take We The People to reject Hillary Clinton's characteristic dishonesties ("follow the money"). Clinton has never been the People's Choice. "
I'm sorry but I don't think you're in a position for speak for "We the People". Ms. Clinton is my choice because she's a nasty ruthless cage fighter and she might get something done. I am realist. I see what is required to be a serious contender in this fight. And neither Elizabeth Warren nor Bernie Sanders has it.
I love Mr. Sanders but he'd be eaten alive and is not qualified to be POTUS. Nor is Ms. Warren. Liking them and realizing they are the right person for the job are two different things.
This isn't just about a person's positions. It's also about knowing how to swim in the cesspool that is Washington. It's about how to manage sometimes crazy despotic leaders. It's about facing down Congress or the Supreme Court. It's about how to bargain with Big Business to get as much as you can for your side.
Frankly no one currently in the race has that resume except Hilary Clinton. It's not enough to like someone. They have to be capable of the job.
I'm sorry but I don't think you're in a position for speak for "We the People". Ms. Clinton is my choice because she's a nasty ruthless cage fighter and she might get something done. I am realist. I see what is required to be a serious contender in this fight. And neither Elizabeth Warren nor Bernie Sanders has it.
I love Mr. Sanders but he'd be eaten alive and is not qualified to be POTUS. Nor is Ms. Warren. Liking them and realizing they are the right person for the job are two different things.
This isn't just about a person's positions. It's also about knowing how to swim in the cesspool that is Washington. It's about how to manage sometimes crazy despotic leaders. It's about facing down Congress or the Supreme Court. It's about how to bargain with Big Business to get as much as you can for your side.
Frankly no one currently in the race has that resume except Hilary Clinton. It's not enough to like someone. They have to be capable of the job.
1
If you are pleased with the statues quo and political stagnation then by all means vote for HC. You call yourself a realist. How realistic is it for HC withl all her baggage to baggage to be an effective president. The majority of her time and enegry will spent spent addressing old and new scandals.
4
Here's the problem: there's only one Bernie Sanders. And the majority of the population of this country is all too willing to drown its misfortunes in junk tv, booze, and drugs.
28
I believe there's a lot of truth in what you say, George Eliot. And it threatens to leaves this country easy pickings for the Koch brothers and the slick TV pitchmen who are all too eager to do their bidding.
6
Well you liberals have been crying in the comment sections of various articles for him to run, you wanted him, you got him. I just hope he's honest with the American people that he is a straight out socialist. That would make for a mighty entertaining campaign season. i can't wait for him to make the case to the American people that income redistribution on roids is the way to go. I'll bet he'll have a coke and a smile for ISIS. It'll be liberal bliss. Workers of the world unite!
5
Well, a little balance is certainly in order. Better to join an optimist who loves his country than go with the sheep who've cynically given up. Just knowing he's the only candidate who hasn't been bought already is enough to give him a listen. There are many of us who feel they'll have to hold their nose and vote for HRC to prevent this country from turning into a religious fanatic state, beholden to Koch bros. & the .01 percenters. Go Bernie Go!
43
Oh my gosh, a SOCIALIST! Someone who considers the common good equal to individual prosperity – how terrifying! I suppose you would prefer to continue our present system where the one-percenters reap all the wealth and the rest of us watch our economic security disappear into their pockets.
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@ exiled---yeah, it works every time its tried. How's that Union of Soviet Socialist Republics thing workin out for ya?
2
Now pundits can stop complaining that Hillary is running unopposed. Bernie is absolutely on target with his view that the billionaires have bought the US Government. It is time to take it back. Go Bernie! Tell 'em like it is!
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Maybe the NYT will cover the Bernie Sanders campaign with the zealousness it has shown for publishing irrelevant trash about Hillary Clinton or what Jeb Bush had for dinner. Like Elizabeth Warren's, Bernie's is a campaign worthy of a contribution. I wish the NYT and its columnists would start calling people like Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, Paul Ryan and the rest of the Ayn Randians hypocrites, liars, and crackpots with the same frequency they have been dismissing Warren and Sanders as "populists."
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I'm thrilled that Bernie is in, and there's a lot worse things than being dismissed as "populist"! Indeed, Bernie and Elizabeth Warren could well wear "populist" as a badge of honor.
Contrast that with the equally accurate description of all the GOP candidates as "plutocrat-ists" or "millionaire-ist" or "1 %ists"!
I'll take Bernie and/or Elizabeth any day!
Contrast that with the equally accurate description of all the GOP candidates as "plutocrat-ists" or "millionaire-ist" or "1 %ists"!
I'll take Bernie and/or Elizabeth any day!
6
You Go Bernie!
There's a reason VT has better living standard than it's neighboring twin NH. Sanders is that reason.
There's a reason VT has better living standard than it's neighboring twin NH. Sanders is that reason.
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