Bernie is my first cousin. I also went to PS197, James Madison high school and Brooklyn College. I also lived in the same apartment building in Midwood (not Flatbush) Brooklyn growing up. My father is Bernies mothers brother. Bernie is a great guy. Please explain why I don't have a Brooklyn accent like he does even though I stayed in Brooklyn (moved to Park Slope in my 20's).
8
I am 53 years old. Sanders is the first serious presidential candidate in my adulthood whom I know shares my values and truly cares about regular people. His patriotism is unimpeachable as he seeks what is best for this country's long term success. We've been brainwashed for years with free market/free trade propaganda that clearly isn't working. We've been divided and conquered economically by the oligarchs, the plutocrats and the establishment who have used distractive social issues to turn our attention from the fact that they have been voting away our jobs to the Chinese, et al, and our money to themselves. Bernie understands this and is utterly focused on getting to the real problems this country faces.
Thank You, New York Times for this excellent background piece on Bernie Sanders! I like him even more!
Thank You, New York Times for this excellent background piece on Bernie Sanders! I like him even more!
24
He is beloved in Vt. - Bermonter slogans -
"Feel the Bern" "Baby, you were Bern to Run" (we are hoping Bruce
will "Feel the Bern") and "Time for Tough Love on Wall Street. Without the Love" Love when he gets asked stupid questions, like "Do you really pick up your own dry cleaning?" And his response "All the things going on in this country and that's the best question you can ask?" Or words to that effect.
That's when you Feel the Bern. Voted AGAINST Iraq.(Bernie Sanders speaks in opposition to the Iraq War on October 9, 2002) Wants to bring back
Glass Steagall. Go Bernie.
"Feel the Bern" "Baby, you were Bern to Run" (we are hoping Bruce
will "Feel the Bern") and "Time for Tough Love on Wall Street. Without the Love" Love when he gets asked stupid questions, like "Do you really pick up your own dry cleaning?" And his response "All the things going on in this country and that's the best question you can ask?" Or words to that effect.
That's when you Feel the Bern. Voted AGAINST Iraq.(Bernie Sanders speaks in opposition to the Iraq War on October 9, 2002) Wants to bring back
Glass Steagall. Go Bernie.
19
Thank you NYT for finally treating Bernie respectfully. It is a breath of fresh air.
23
I didn't know the mother of Bernie Sanders passed away at the age of 46, when Bernie was only 17 years old. I can't help but think that people who experience such tragedies understand that government can play a positive, proactive role and that preaching "self-reliance" and the virtues of the private sector ring hollow to so many people out there.
I look at Jeb Bush, a graduate of the most exclusive private high school in the USA (Phillips Academy in Andover, MA) and a man fortunate enough to be 62 years old and have a mother who is still living at the age of 90 (lifetime, guaranteed, government-provided health care and insurance have indeed been very good to the Bushes)--and I wonder if he really has a clue about anything regarding the struggles of ordinary people and why they may support something like the ACA.
I look at Jeb Bush, a graduate of the most exclusive private high school in the USA (Phillips Academy in Andover, MA) and a man fortunate enough to be 62 years old and have a mother who is still living at the age of 90 (lifetime, guaranteed, government-provided health care and insurance have indeed been very good to the Bushes)--and I wonder if he really has a clue about anything regarding the struggles of ordinary people and why they may support something like the ACA.
20
People should recognize that one of the most important prerogatives of the President is nominating people for seats on the Supreme Court of the United States.
I would be happy to vote for Senator Bernis Sanders for President.
I would vote for Hillary Clinton for President if she is the Democrativ nominee.
There is no way on God's green Earth that I would vote for any one of the 16 ( and counting) potential Rebublican nominees.
Vote on Tuesday November 8, 2016. Think carefully who you would want naming judicial nominees. The next President may well have to name candidates for several Supreme Court vacancies.
I would be happy to vote for Senator Bernis Sanders for President.
I would vote for Hillary Clinton for President if she is the Democrativ nominee.
There is no way on God's green Earth that I would vote for any one of the 16 ( and counting) potential Rebublican nominees.
Vote on Tuesday November 8, 2016. Think carefully who you would want naming judicial nominees. The next President may well have to name candidates for several Supreme Court vacancies.
13
I'd love to vote for Bernie as he espouses my values. But I'm a practical liberal, so Hillz will probably have to be it, to help keep any kind of balance in Washington, and, of course, protect who's on the Supreme Court. Between Trump and Cuz - who I hope run on the same ticket to marginalize the Republicans - I have one question: How crazy must the Republicans be before the independents and moderates get disgusted.
3
If you love Bernie, do yourself a favor and vote for him in the primaries. If Clinton prevails, you can vote for her in the general.
20
Bernie can't beat phony Hillary, the way the Democratic primary is rigged. I hope he stays true to his Independent roots and launches a 3rd party run for President. That will show the HRC she can't buy the election with her fat-cat Wall Street money.
3
Bernie's voyage is the political equivalent of Ben and Jerry's. It doesn't get more real than the Brooklyn of olden times, Dem Dodgers Bums Days. You transplant a Brooklyn Boy in the bucolic Green Mountains and you get a Vermonter whose savvy, street-wise roots are grounded in Flatbush Realism. A better combo you'll not find.
Bernie Sanders. What's not to like?
DD
Manhattan
Bernie Sanders. What's not to like?
DD
Manhattan
21
From what I'm reading, it appears that some people believe, nay, have proof, that Bernie is not perfect. WOW!! Say it ain't so! Compared to Clinton and the GOP, Bernie practically walks on water! He's the only candidate who speaks "We, the People" and understands exactly what that means. The U.S. NEEDS Bernie.
22
I heard Bernie Sanders say something unique for an American politician. It was in an extended interview on the Diane Rehm show. Can't remember the question, but Bernie's response was to the effect of "I don't know. I really haven't researched that issue enough to give you an intelligent answer." That was pretty refreshing!
22
I grew up in Queens and went to Brooklyn Tech, then Columbia College. Wherever I've been, I have always noticed, and said, that the "best people" come from New York City, and the "very best" from Brooklyn. I'm amazed at the honor roll of notables from Madison. Truly outstanding.
14
A genuine human being.
21
I forgot to mention that the t-shirts are Union made. Bernie is the real thing, so let's all rally around him so we can have a true progressive in the White House!
21
I am supporting Bernie Sanders because he is the only candidate willing to talk about the corrupting influence of oligarchy, which researchers from Princeton and Northwestern University found last year. http://journal-neo.org/2014/11/11/princeton-makes-it-official-usa-has-be...
I think that this is the most crucial issue of our time because everything else depends upon the integrity of the government. If it ignores what most people truly need, which it does routinely, and if it serves the interests of the top .1 percent of wealth hoarders, which it routinely does--getting laws written and approved by corporate lawyers, then we mostly have no way of even finding out what is really happening. Left and Right stop being the crucial political terms when the government always serves the billionaire class and creates policies that undermine good education and promote ignorance, mis-education, and brazen propaganda. Higher education is being destroyed right before our eyes. Look at what Walker is doing to University of Wisconsin and what that means for all professors in the US. The NYT should really do much more to cover this issue, too. If the NYT would cover more essential political-economic changes, it would have more appeal to progressive and liberal readers.
I think that this is the most crucial issue of our time because everything else depends upon the integrity of the government. If it ignores what most people truly need, which it does routinely, and if it serves the interests of the top .1 percent of wealth hoarders, which it routinely does--getting laws written and approved by corporate lawyers, then we mostly have no way of even finding out what is really happening. Left and Right stop being the crucial political terms when the government always serves the billionaire class and creates policies that undermine good education and promote ignorance, mis-education, and brazen propaganda. Higher education is being destroyed right before our eyes. Look at what Walker is doing to University of Wisconsin and what that means for all professors in the US. The NYT should really do much more to cover this issue, too. If the NYT would cover more essential political-economic changes, it would have more appeal to progressive and liberal readers.
22
GO.......!!!!............Bernie.....Hurrah...Brooklyn !!!
16
I went to high school in Brooklyn shortly before Bernie Sanders. But I went to a Catholic school, Bishop Loughlin, that was free and intergrated. I still have a slight Brooklyn accent. America's Mayor, Rudy Guiliani, is the school's most famous alumini. We got a great education, but Harvard was not interested.
Bernie is running on the platform of European socialism. Many Americans have adopted this, but do not want to pay for it. It may soon become the dominant economic factor in this country.
Who knew that with a heavy Brooklyn accent, you can sell almost anything.
Bernie is running on the platform of European socialism. Many Americans have adopted this, but do not want to pay for it. It may soon become the dominant economic factor in this country.
Who knew that with a heavy Brooklyn accent, you can sell almost anything.
9
Bernie emphasizes that it is "American socialism." I have heard him make that distinction several times.
3
I said it before more than once, Bernie is like a fresh breeze with the sweet scent of unimpeachable integrity and genuine concern for those who work hard for their families well-being.
Washington has been losing its connection with mainstream working America for years culminating in the present false Messiah who has hoodwinked a nation by making them believe that by giving the way the store we gain friends and security.
It is time for a long overdue revolt against the "business as usual" Washington establishment and the arrogant dynasties who believe the Presidency is their God given right.
It is time to bring to the fore the true American spirit of equality of opportunity and the belief that hard work brings its true reward and that speculators shall never again ruin the lives of so many Americans.
It is time for Bernie Sanders to take charge and I say this as registered Republican and former District Leader and Chairman, what is more I feel no conflict of interest because as a former Vermonter I know Bernie Sanders, so should you.
Washington has been losing its connection with mainstream working America for years culminating in the present false Messiah who has hoodwinked a nation by making them believe that by giving the way the store we gain friends and security.
It is time for a long overdue revolt against the "business as usual" Washington establishment and the arrogant dynasties who believe the Presidency is their God given right.
It is time to bring to the fore the true American spirit of equality of opportunity and the belief that hard work brings its true reward and that speculators shall never again ruin the lives of so many Americans.
It is time for Bernie Sanders to take charge and I say this as registered Republican and former District Leader and Chairman, what is more I feel no conflict of interest because as a former Vermonter I know Bernie Sanders, so should you.
26
Bernie is a breath of fresh air in this incapacitated political arena. I went to one of his town hall meetings before 2012 election. He had the deep concern that Mitt Romney's big campaign spending was going to outrun Obama at that time (thanks to GOP's skew polls then). He encouraged people to vote. He also mentioned that he did not want to be against super pacs since they might flood him with negative ads and cost his seat then he will no longer be able to serve. Fortunately, the result from 2012 shew that people were not as easily manipulated as GOP would think. I would think that might give him enough reasons to run for the presidency this time. He also talked about how the crony democracy happened in the meeting. He was so sincere and passionate. Evan now I still have the looming feeling after I left his meeting that day. I think his honesty will win a lot of votes. However, his campaign team needs to broaden the base. He needs to show Democratic party that he is electable among the minorities. With the right strategies, he might go all the way.
22
This guy is the real McCoy! Not a phony. When I know him in Vermont, I worked for him in the 70's on his filmstrip company, he insisted on paying me above the minimum wage.
34
It was Hillary's response to Bernie that completely tore it for me. I was ambivalent about her before. Not anymore. It seems union officials didn't actually ask the teachers before their union handed it's endorsement to Hillary, before the unions were even supposed to decide. http://www.hngn.com/articles/110434/20150717/teachers-union-members-are-... The Union president was a friend and donor of Hillary's. The timing was Hillary's. Teachers are upset. Tia Oso, the protester at Netroots, just happens to be a benificiary of George Soros, funded by his foundation. Another billionaire for Hillary. http://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/about/programs/us-programs/grantee... Why would I vote for Hillary? She does not have my best interests in mind for her presidential run. The briefest look at her donor list shows that all of the worse players on Wall Street are her financial backers. Her vote belongs to them.
28
I lived in Brooklyn for 12 years (80’s to early 90’s). I now live in a conservative leaning area of Washington State. (University Place hosted the U.S. Golf Open last month.) On August 1, I will be hosting a Bernie Sanders ’16 booth at my city’s annual summer festival. There is a lot of interest here in Bernie Sanders, and also much confusion about who he is and what kind of President he would be. I expect we will be getting quite a cross section of visitors to our booth as the festival site is next to the public library and a Whole Foods Market. I am taking notes from many of these comments to prepare for questions. Thanks to all for taking the time to comment.
23
And thank you for helping people learn mor about Bernie. To know him is to respect him and vote for him!
7
Having read all his old crazy rantings and beliefs, including the one that he believes that sex can prevent cancer in women, I cannot believe that people would vote for him. Oh wait, that's right, a doctor from GA was elected to congress and he thinks that women can prevent conception during rape by thinking good thoughts. Voters are crazier than the politicians for voting them in.
2
Bernie represents the best of Flatbush. Unlike Schumer and many other politicians he never took wall street money to fund his campaigns. Only Shirley Chisolm and Liz Holtzman can claim to have been as authentic a champion of New York City's unrepresented as Bernie Sanders.
He may not have the big money behind him, but he deserves full support.
He would make a superb president. Can't say that about any other current candidate running for president from either party.
He may not have the big money behind him, but he deserves full support.
He would make a superb president. Can't say that about any other current candidate running for president from either party.
30
Surely you mean Tom Paine's "Rights of Man", not "Common Sense" versus Edmund Burke; Burke and Paine were on the same side during the American Revolution.
Altgeld, huh? Bernie's in the company of some mighty fine socialists then. Some I've even heard speak in Altgeld Hall and in front of it at the Alma Mater of the University of Illinois in Urbana at numerous demonstrations over the years. We'd be happy to welcome Bernie to our neighborhood.
13
Perhaps it's the myriad trolls who show up for every article about Russia, but I am beginning to think I see similar patterns regarding comments about candidate political articles.
Before we get too carried away with comments of support or opposition -- and their number of Recommendeds -- regarding a candidate, let's pause and consider the possibility that some or many may be trolls of Candidate A who are pushing Candidate C because Candidate A thinks Candidate B will be stronger opposition than Candidate C.
This is not a plea for cynicism. Rather it is simply saying we should do what we should always do: look at, analyze, and weigh the substance of what candidates say, as well as their actual (not alleged) record.
Before we get too carried away with comments of support or opposition -- and their number of Recommendeds -- regarding a candidate, let's pause and consider the possibility that some or many may be trolls of Candidate A who are pushing Candidate C because Candidate A thinks Candidate B will be stronger opposition than Candidate C.
This is not a plea for cynicism. Rather it is simply saying we should do what we should always do: look at, analyze, and weigh the substance of what candidates say, as well as their actual (not alleged) record.
5
Not a troll, just someone who cares about politics and public policy. Bernie Sanders is thoughtful, articulate and committed to advancing the interests of ordinary Americans. His policies seem in line with those advanced by FDR and Truman. Give 'em hell, Bernie.
As for the concern about comments/recommends being manipulated: could be, but Bernie's crowds and rising poll numbers demonstrate that he has plenty of support and that it is burgeoning.
As for the concern about comments/recommends being manipulated: could be, but Bernie's crowds and rising poll numbers demonstrate that he has plenty of support and that it is burgeoning.
22
There are 2 ways to eliminate the stench of conservatism/
1 - elect an actual Progressive like Bernie who will rally the people to such a level the GOP won;t dare go against him, or
2 - elect one of 16 occupants of the GOP clown car who will create so much damage they'll be history for at least 2 generations.
1 - elect an actual Progressive like Bernie who will rally the people to such a level the GOP won;t dare go against him, or
2 - elect one of 16 occupants of the GOP clown car who will create so much damage they'll be history for at least 2 generations.
10
If one the clown car occupants gets elected, there won't be 2 more generations. We'll be involved in World War 3 shortly after that person takes office.
10
Bernie Sanders may be America's last chance. Let's hope that the American voter wakes up before we slip into an irreversible plutocracy where only the super rich enjoy the labors of all Americans. I pray Bernie Sanders is taken seriously, for the future of my children and their children, and all of our children.
28
In response to Bernies potential to win swing states a number of people have pointed out Bernie has in July alone had huge rallys in red states: 11k in Phoenix, 8k in Dallas, and 5k in Houston. All of this on a shoe string budget with no super pac money. Why are these comments mentioning the rallys- which the nytimes did not cover- being deleted?
29
I am thrilled that Bernie has arrived on the scene in these desperate times and such a depressing political landscape. I know that I voted for the current man in the WH because of that change thing he kept talking about, remembering how impressed I was at his speaking at the 2004 convention. Who is this and where did he come from? Voila! Now we know his true colors. I know that that will not happen with Bernie Sanders. I know his true colors and they are shining through.
22
I am a long-time resident of NC and grew up in what many eould view as privileged circimstances, but I really like what Bernie Sanders, because he speaks about substantive issues in a both intelligent and passionate manner. He is straightforward and undissembling. Although is background is very different from FDR, our greatest president since Lincoln, he is the real deal and I suppory him.
27
Does anyone remember that old, 70's anathema called "selling out?" I know so many people who admittedly, with great regret, became part of "the system" but never forgave themselves for it.
How strange and beautiful to see that Bernie Sanders found a way to be part of the system without selling out.
How strange and beautiful to see that Bernie Sanders found a way to be part of the system without selling out.
31
I too grew up in Brooklyn, shot marbles, skated and went to the Saturday morning movies but I don't think that having a strong Brooklyn accent is a claim to fame outside of politics. I am far more interested in how he plans to pay for all of his programs because I don't think that raising taxes on the 1% is going to be enough to cover it all.
3
He has said he wants to close corporate tax loopholes and shut down illegal offshore tax haven practices. Consider that there is approximately $1.2 trillion in corporate profit stashed away in corporate tax havens according to a report published by US Public Interest Research Group. That's quite a chunk of change isn't it?
19
It's really simple (and supported by economists):
Expand SS benefits to elders and disabled by raising the 'cap' on taxable income.
We all pay SS tax on first $118 K of income. That's the CAP. Millionaires don't pay SS tax on anything OVER 118K ) So 'lift the cap' and capture taxes on income ABOVE $118K. (Est $10 B/yr
Pay for tuition/fee free public college / university (for .academically eligible kids) by a $.o5/trade on Wall St. (Est 1000B/yr) Other countires already impose this tax(UK Canada) and European Union will start in 2017.
Pay for Universial Health Care by closing corporate loopholes and increasing the top margin tax rate to 1950's levels (corporate and personal). End corporate we'll fare (Est $100B/yr)
Fact: in 1952 Corporate Income Taxes (under REPUBLLICAN Eisenhower) were 32% of US revenue. 2014 only 11%
You owe it to your parents and children to research his bills in congress (all of these have been submitted)…..are we calling our senators and asking them to support them? Not yet. But that's the political revolution he's talking about. Us, paying attention, being engaged AFTER the election to do our civic duty and Call/Email our elected reps to tell them WE want them to vote FOR the legislation that benefits the 99% Not just the 1%
www.berniesanders.com
Expand SS benefits to elders and disabled by raising the 'cap' on taxable income.
We all pay SS tax on first $118 K of income. That's the CAP. Millionaires don't pay SS tax on anything OVER 118K ) So 'lift the cap' and capture taxes on income ABOVE $118K. (Est $10 B/yr
Pay for tuition/fee free public college / university (for .academically eligible kids) by a $.o5/trade on Wall St. (Est 1000B/yr) Other countires already impose this tax(UK Canada) and European Union will start in 2017.
Pay for Universial Health Care by closing corporate loopholes and increasing the top margin tax rate to 1950's levels (corporate and personal). End corporate we'll fare (Est $100B/yr)
Fact: in 1952 Corporate Income Taxes (under REPUBLLICAN Eisenhower) were 32% of US revenue. 2014 only 11%
You owe it to your parents and children to research his bills in congress (all of these have been submitted)…..are we calling our senators and asking them to support them? Not yet. But that's the political revolution he's talking about. Us, paying attention, being engaged AFTER the election to do our civic duty and Call/Email our elected reps to tell them WE want them to vote FOR the legislation that benefits the 99% Not just the 1%
www.berniesanders.com
19
I am supporting Bernie Sanders and agree that that your question has merit and will need to be addressed.
3
...AND he's a singer too! have you heard his album from the 60s? 'this land is your land, this land is my land'....lol...does bernie believe in property rights?
3
Bernie is very wise guy, we all do understand it. He opposes in his speeches Hillary Clinton and even wins sometimes. The only problem is that he is a pig in a poke, nobody knows what his real actions could be
1
What? Bernie Sanders is probably THE most honest and open politician out there. Even many Republicans will tell you they respect him because what you see is what you get with Bernie. There isn't anything to hide, he's telling you straight up what his policies and stances are.
29
One thing about Hillary that strikes many people, certainly enough people to make a real difference, is that she is only mouthing populist fodder to protect her flank on the left from Bernie. She is incredibly smart, tough, resilient - all qualities that would make her an outstanding executive. However, however, in their hearts people can tell this is all very disingenuous, that she's a tool of the corporations and Wall Street.
Bernie, as a feisty, angry, white-haired New York Jew, certainly has his work cut out to win over enough Democratic primary voters, never mind a plurality of electoral votes throughout the nation were he to be a nominee. But there is no doubt whatsoever that he is honest, he is as he presents himself, he has no ability to come across as anything other than what he is.
In a summer when people are so disgusted with the status quo that Donald Trump, of all people, is able to gather so much support, Bernie is a man of the moment. Hillary, once again as in 2008, is too late to the party. For all of her outstanding capabilities, she seems to find a way to fall off the rails when it comes to this presidential campaigning thing. Her history with her husband's catering to Wall Street, her antipathy in action when it comes to the TPP and any idea of resurrecting Glass-Stegall, her super PAC money, her air of entitlement to the throne, are all working against her just when those attributes can least afford to follow a presidential candidate.
Bernie, as a feisty, angry, white-haired New York Jew, certainly has his work cut out to win over enough Democratic primary voters, never mind a plurality of electoral votes throughout the nation were he to be a nominee. But there is no doubt whatsoever that he is honest, he is as he presents himself, he has no ability to come across as anything other than what he is.
In a summer when people are so disgusted with the status quo that Donald Trump, of all people, is able to gather so much support, Bernie is a man of the moment. Hillary, once again as in 2008, is too late to the party. For all of her outstanding capabilities, she seems to find a way to fall off the rails when it comes to this presidential campaigning thing. Her history with her husband's catering to Wall Street, her antipathy in action when it comes to the TPP and any idea of resurrecting Glass-Stegall, her super PAC money, her air of entitlement to the throne, are all working against her just when those attributes can least afford to follow a presidential candidate.
25
Now I have two reasons to dislike him; his politics and his hometown.
an honest man...what a change for once in the world of politics and government
cannot be bought
fights for the people
what we need
cannot be bought
fights for the people
what we need
32
I find him unappealing and not at all presidential. What do people see in him? He does not represent Americans and there is no accounting for taste.
1
Just because a politician "looks" nice, doesn't mean they're actually a good person or good leader. The people who support Bernie see a rare type of politician; an honest man who will tell you straight up where he stands.
I think you underestimate how much he does represent Americans and I honestly feel you'll see this undercurrent surge throughout this primary season.
I think you underestimate how much he does represent Americans and I honestly feel you'll see this undercurrent surge throughout this primary season.
23
Could Bernie be the person who could save the US from it's empirical fall? How I wish he had some hugely powerful champions (in the media) to promote him big time. We desperately need someone cut more from the cloth of FDR and Eisenhower and Lincoln. I think Bernie Sanders is that man. I love to have a reverie of imagining him as President and both houses with Democratic majorities.
28
I wish him luck but honestly do not believe he has a chance of obtaining the nomination. People do not want far left (Obama gave us plenty of that) and I don't think a 70 something guy will cut it. They nixed McCain and he was only 70 at the time....everyone said he was too old and would die in office. Has everyone forgotten that? Oh well it will be interesting to watch.
2
Uh, seventy is the new sixty. We are living well into our eighties and nighties these days. Heck, he is practically a kid!
21
To be fair, McCain didn't win because of Palin and because candidate McCain was soooo different from the Senator McCain everyone liked. And Obama has nothing on Bernie in terms of being left.
But at the end of the day, Bernie is actually not proposing anything radical on a global level, most other developed nations have universal healthcare, a decent minimum wage and affordable college. It's America that's lagging behind of this stuff.
But at the end of the day, Bernie is actually not proposing anything radical on a global level, most other developed nations have universal healthcare, a decent minimum wage and affordable college. It's America that's lagging behind of this stuff.
26
Obama is hardly far left. He has governed like what used to be called a moderate Republican.
11
The first battle is the primary and yes he can win it and then win the general election. Everything is possible and I believe Sanders is a more credible and potent candidate than Hillary (against the republicans).
35
If I'm not a democrat, can I switch parties to vote for him in the primary?
29
Yes! Please do so before the end of this year.
http://vote.nyc.ny.us/html/voters/voters.shtml
http://vote.nyc.ny.us/html/voters/voters.shtml
9
Yes, as long as it's before the deadline to register as a democrat.
15
Look into the voting requirements in your state. A few states allow open primaries where you can vote for any candidate you wish.
13
I know Brooklyn and the people that came from its streets. Bernie Sanders has my vote.
31
Jeb! wants to end Medicare and replace it with vouchers. In contrast, Bernie wants to expand Medicare. Easy choice there.
I like most of Bernie's other positions on the issues as well. I just wish that instead of all these fluff pieces, we could see a side by side comparison of positions on major issues like Medicare from all the candidates.
I like most of Bernie's other positions on the issues as well. I just wish that instead of all these fluff pieces, we could see a side by side comparison of positions on major issues like Medicare from all the candidates.
43
The problem is that for the most part the GOP candidates do not have any positions - unless name calling counts.
13
Bernie Sanders would be a great boost to the Republican Party as the people in mainstream America would never elect an east coast liberal like him. Our country is not as progressive as many of the NYT people would like to think they are. He might win over certain states like California, Oregon, Wisconsin and definitely New York and Vermont but I would highly doubt he could carry the presidential election.
He is far too left wing for many Americans and his ideas are too unorthodox. He has his supporters but also many detractors.
He is far too left wing for many Americans and his ideas are too unorthodox. He has his supporters but also many detractors.
4
Time will tell but Bernies getting bigger crowds in AZ and TX than any other candidate.
8
Thanks Hillary. Can you name one? He polls very strongly with veterans, even conservative ones, because he cares about them, as witnessed in his legislation with McCain.
14
Actually most of his positions are dead center with the country. The majority support them when polled on the issues. It is the media that says his postions are left wing. Since they present the reactionary policies of the far, far right as "moderate" or even just conserative - which they are not - anything other than moderately right wing looks far left to them. It all depends on where you are sitting and who is paying your salary.
17
Bernie, like me, remembers the once thriving middle class that gave Brooklynites, and so many other Americans, the promise of a financially stable life. It's an honor, perhaps a necessity, to support someone who knows the value of being part of a neighborhood.
46
Meh. As likable as the sound of his politics are, thus us a guy that "fled"to Vermont as a way of getting a foothold in politics. Not that that us the original sin, but the new York Times would do us all a favor by describing his style of governance while mayor of Burlington. As I understand it, he brokje a lot of eggs to make his omelettes.
1
Bernie Sanders delivered an excellent performance as mayor of Burlington. He kept the streets plowed, redeveloped the waterfront as parkland/green space, and established after-school programs. His supporters won a number of seats on the city council and Sanders was re-elected with strong support. He served as mayor from 1982-90, and then ran for Congress in 1990.
3
I could live with my conscience with a vote for Bernie Sanders. I may do that, whether he is the official candidate of the Democratic Party or not. After all, I am an Independent. I am weary of going back and forth, arguing with myself to turn in a protest ballot (with nothing on it) or caving in to vote for Clinton. I long to see someone new, someone fresh, someone who is simply a human being, however flawed, but capable of those "small" human things: apologizing; saying to anyone, even an adversary, maybe "you're right;" "I don't know"; "let me listen to you." Not necessarily that Sanders does and says those precise things but that he seems to "get" that there are better ways of rooting out some of our ingrown evils, poisonous racism, allowing poverty, continuing poor schooling, a justice system where we throw away people, double-speak everywhere, fear and hatred of immigrants, Guantanamo, external renditions, drone attacks. These and more of our ingrown evils, as difficult to eradicate as poison ivy roots deep within the garden. What does my vote matter if I betray my conscience simply because I am told, "Your vote won't count unless you vote for a real candidate." What is a real candidate?
40
He seems to "get that" because he has no problem ignoring all the trees for the forest. Er, just like any other politician.
If everyone who likes and respects Bernie votes for him in the primaries, he'll have a darn good shot. Especially if we contribute to his campaign.
5
Bernie will win if we make it happen. A government for the people by the people.
38
To which "people" are you referring? The 47% people? The unwashed of OWS people? The millions of overpaid civil servants? Please elaborate.
2
Leave capitalism - the 99%. No ones talking about leaving capitalism, we're just departing from socialism in favor of the 1%. Bank bailouts, tax breaks for the wealthy, oil and other subsidies, the list goes on. Meanwhile the trains are about to fall apart and our taxes aren't sufficient to cover it. You want to live in America you need to pay you fair share. And that means SOME concept of rewarding public good as well as the raw ability to make money for oneself.
12
No, the veterans who revere him. Of course, not you, right?
5
Besides Bernie, other well known Democratic Socialists are Republican Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt along with his cousin Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) . All of these men exemplify "Of" the "People", "By" the "People" and "For" the "People". And, its with leaders like these men, fortified by the powerful support of "We-the-people", that has kept, and will keep, America from becoming a Corporate "Plantation".
44
Funny you should mention the Roosevelts. I've been thinking of them, and particularly Teddy, as an example of members of the sdi-called ruling class being ABLE to accomplish what the diud because they intimately understood the world of power and how it worked, let alone had personal relationships in that class that could only help. It's fine to be from a middle class and rant and rail against the 1%, and His knows Sanders has the smarts when it comes to that. But he's also quite good at alienating people should they disagree. It remains to be seen just how an effective leader he would be. I have my doubt's.
Why not a series of three-way debates, with Bernie Sanders, Jim Webb, and Jon Huntsman? In ignoring party pseudo-debates, they would not only elevate the Presidential race, but give three articulate, serious people a huge boost. Republican "debates" will be watched by people who can't find anything on Comedy Central, and Democratic "debates" will be watched by no one.
Americans would be very interested in real debates, not scripted, bumper sticker platitudes, replete with ad hominem attacks and pretend Boy Scout/Girl Scout virtues.
Most candidates listen to all the noise, much of it their own, having no faith in the American people. I do, and I believe debates of substance by Sanders, Webb, and Huntsman would show that.
Importantly, this article not only omits the transcendent game of punchball, it leaves out three immense, early influences on Sanders.
First was the 1951 confrontation between Ralph Branca and Bobby Thompson when, I expect, Sanders learned about community and collective heartbreak. The following four years would have taught him about how a community can pull itself up by its bootstraps, despite strenuous opposition from the wealthy enclave a dozen miles to the north, rebuilding from the depths, as Johnny Podres proved the community leader par excellence in 1955. Then, two years later, Sanders would have learned never to trust public adults, when Walter O'Malley betrayed the community, casting it into the depths from which it has yet to recover.
Americans would be very interested in real debates, not scripted, bumper sticker platitudes, replete with ad hominem attacks and pretend Boy Scout/Girl Scout virtues.
Most candidates listen to all the noise, much of it their own, having no faith in the American people. I do, and I believe debates of substance by Sanders, Webb, and Huntsman would show that.
Importantly, this article not only omits the transcendent game of punchball, it leaves out three immense, early influences on Sanders.
First was the 1951 confrontation between Ralph Branca and Bobby Thompson when, I expect, Sanders learned about community and collective heartbreak. The following four years would have taught him about how a community can pull itself up by its bootstraps, despite strenuous opposition from the wealthy enclave a dozen miles to the north, rebuilding from the depths, as Johnny Podres proved the community leader par excellence in 1955. Then, two years later, Sanders would have learned never to trust public adults, when Walter O'Malley betrayed the community, casting it into the depths from which it has yet to recover.
4
Elizabeth Warren do you hear the crescendo of those with no voice who you have fought for most of your life? The time is not 2020 the time is now.
If this man from Brooklyn is elected the 45th President of the United States of America, we have to understand voting him into office is a vote placing us into office. Our work, as the abandoned classes buried by special interest groups & money, begins now and it will not end on January 20th, 2016 at noon.
I realize most of us are so very tired, worn down by the onslaught of inequality, work with no security, and division, via policy, that only furthers our decline. But, we must understand he'll need our support and our hard work or he will accomplish nothing when he attempts to push back against Wall Street, for-profit health care, tax shelters overseas, and a congress that has long since demonstrated we do not matter to them.
Any candidate who unequivocally exclaims 'If you're too big to fail you're too big to exist' while directing that clarity toward Wall Street, as Sen. Sanders has, will face Herculean opposition in the months ahead. Opposition that will stop at nothing to keep the average American at bay; we cannot let that happen. If we do let MSM or attack ads. or the Koch’s triumph we cannot blame Bernie Sanders. We will have only ourselves to blame for our lack of effort and the consequences of that, quite literally, could be the final nail in the coffin of our Democracy.
If this man from Brooklyn is elected the 45th President of the United States of America, we have to understand voting him into office is a vote placing us into office. Our work, as the abandoned classes buried by special interest groups & money, begins now and it will not end on January 20th, 2016 at noon.
I realize most of us are so very tired, worn down by the onslaught of inequality, work with no security, and division, via policy, that only furthers our decline. But, we must understand he'll need our support and our hard work or he will accomplish nothing when he attempts to push back against Wall Street, for-profit health care, tax shelters overseas, and a congress that has long since demonstrated we do not matter to them.
Any candidate who unequivocally exclaims 'If you're too big to fail you're too big to exist' while directing that clarity toward Wall Street, as Sen. Sanders has, will face Herculean opposition in the months ahead. Opposition that will stop at nothing to keep the average American at bay; we cannot let that happen. If we do let MSM or attack ads. or the Koch’s triumph we cannot blame Bernie Sanders. We will have only ourselves to blame for our lack of effort and the consequences of that, quite literally, could be the final nail in the coffin of our Democracy.
35
Well said, Chris. I agree that Bernie looks like the last opportunity many of us will ever have to salvage our democracy. We are in serious danger of entering an long, oligarchic Dark Age, hopelessly dominated by big money. Don't live with regrets, people. Fight the good fight with Bernie. There's a live watch party near you on Wednesday, July 29th. Go to Bernie's website and sign up!
7
I'm not a native New Yorker, but as a New Yorker for 25 years, I am proud of Bernie and love his progressive politics. The article talks about his being all Brooklyn, but really, he's a perfect product of a subset of Brooklyn, which is Jewish. His Jewish values of justice and equality combined with Brooklyn moxie to make him the right candidate for us now. Will he play in Peoria? If Peoria knows what's good for them!
78
Very smart people laugh at me when I say that Bernie Sanders has a very real chance at winning the Democratic nomination.
Nevertheless, I stand by that assessment.
The conventions are a long way off. People do not know much about him or about what he stands for.
He has a lot of time to explain his positions and to win over American voters, from both parties.
As comical and as insane as it seems, his only serious downside appears to be the label 'Socialist'.
Most that would not consider voting for him probably know little to nothing about what the term means, but will nevertheless hold it against him.
For those folks I offer this:
Social Security and Medicare are a form of 'socialism'.
Shall we eliminate those programs?
Nevertheless, I stand by that assessment.
The conventions are a long way off. People do not know much about him or about what he stands for.
He has a lot of time to explain his positions and to win over American voters, from both parties.
As comical and as insane as it seems, his only serious downside appears to be the label 'Socialist'.
Most that would not consider voting for him probably know little to nothing about what the term means, but will nevertheless hold it against him.
For those folks I offer this:
Social Security and Medicare are a form of 'socialism'.
Shall we eliminate those programs?
27
“Very smart people laugh at me when I say that Bernie Sanders has a very real chance at winning the Democratic nomination.”
That’s because they have bought into the pundits’ narrative that Sanders can’t win. I believe that he can win the presidency. Sanders is an FDR Democrat.
Social Democracy Is 100% American
http://billmoyers.com/2015/07/03/social-democracy-is-100-american/
“Social democracy is 100 percent American. We may be latecomers to recognizing a universal right to health care. But we were first in creating a universal right to public education, in endowing ourselves with ownership of national parks, and in conferring voting rights on males without property and abolishing religious tests for holding national office.
“Aren’t we, as the talking heads tell us, a center-right nation?
“Well, no, we are emphatically not. And it is regrettable that by swallowing this myth, the present leadership of the Democratic Party has shrunk from some of the party’s best traditions in order to keep up in the race for campaign cash, even to the extent of marginalizing and openly scorning what is described as its ‘left wing.’
“That Sanders is garnering huge crowds who shout his name with an enthusiasm reminiscent of the heyday of the People’s Party in the 1890s radiates a special glow. Americans may once again be remembering who they are and what they need to do to recapture a government now in thrall to the Money Power. And that ain’t extreme. It’s fundamentally American.”
That’s because they have bought into the pundits’ narrative that Sanders can’t win. I believe that he can win the presidency. Sanders is an FDR Democrat.
Social Democracy Is 100% American
http://billmoyers.com/2015/07/03/social-democracy-is-100-american/
“Social democracy is 100 percent American. We may be latecomers to recognizing a universal right to health care. But we were first in creating a universal right to public education, in endowing ourselves with ownership of national parks, and in conferring voting rights on males without property and abolishing religious tests for holding national office.
“Aren’t we, as the talking heads tell us, a center-right nation?
“Well, no, we are emphatically not. And it is regrettable that by swallowing this myth, the present leadership of the Democratic Party has shrunk from some of the party’s best traditions in order to keep up in the race for campaign cash, even to the extent of marginalizing and openly scorning what is described as its ‘left wing.’
“That Sanders is garnering huge crowds who shout his name with an enthusiasm reminiscent of the heyday of the People’s Party in the 1890s radiates a special glow. Americans may once again be remembering who they are and what they need to do to recapture a government now in thrall to the Money Power. And that ain’t extreme. It’s fundamentally American.”
32
To your question, I answer "yes" and "yes." Both absolve people of individual responsibility and draw capital out of the economy so that it might be redistributed.
1
Leave, what do you call it when two of the biggest corporations in America pay such meager wages that huge swathes of their employees are eligible for food stamps and medicaid? Capitalism, no. Corporate welfare, yes. Why should we taxpayers subsidize Walmart and McDonalds? Now THAT's redistributionist.
7
I don't get it with Democrats. Anybody on their bench, Sanders, Webb, Warren, Biden, (don't know enough about O'Malley), are people of good character, great accomplishment, fine intellect, integrity, as demonstrated by at times holding politically unpopular opinions and the lack of scandal in their public lives, experience, and genuine liberal philosophy, as opposed to that mendacious incompetent Hillary Clinton, who is lacking in all of the foregoing areas, except perhaps intellect. So why Hillary?
If it is so important to engage in reverse discrimination by electing a woman to the office of President, instead of the electing best candidate for that office, then draft Warren for goodness sake. But Hillary? You all are exhibiting the political immaturity, folly, and misguided zealotry of ideology of Republicans.
If it is so important to engage in reverse discrimination by electing a woman to the office of President, instead of the electing best candidate for that office, then draft Warren for goodness sake. But Hillary? You all are exhibiting the political immaturity, folly, and misguided zealotry of ideology of Republicans.
15
Misguided zealotry? It was Hillary's response to Bernie that completely tore it for me. I was ambivalent about her before. Not anymore. It seems union officials didn't actually ask the teachers before their union handed it's endorsement to Hillary, before the unions were even supposed to decide.
http://www.hngn.com/articles/110434/20150717/teachers-union-members-are-...
The Union president was a friend and donor of Hillary's. The timing was Hillary's. Teachers are upset.
Tia Oso, the protester at Netroots, just happens to be a benificiary of George
Soros, funded by his foundation. Another billionaire for Hillary.
http://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/about/programs/us-programs/grantee...
Why would I vote for Hillary? She does not have my best interests in mind for her presidential run. The briefest look at her donor list shows that all of the worse players on Wall Street are her financial backers. Her vote belongs to them.
Tia Oso was
http://www.hngn.com/articles/110434/20150717/teachers-union-members-are-...
The Union president was a friend and donor of Hillary's. The timing was Hillary's. Teachers are upset.
Tia Oso, the protester at Netroots, just happens to be a benificiary of George
Soros, funded by his foundation. Another billionaire for Hillary.
http://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/about/programs/us-programs/grantee...
Why would I vote for Hillary? She does not have my best interests in mind for her presidential run. The briefest look at her donor list shows that all of the worse players on Wall Street are her financial backers. Her vote belongs to them.
Tia Oso was
3
It's nice to see more in the NYT about Bernie Sanders. And, though there's nothing wrong with this kind of article, it would be nicer to see more substantive pieces about what he is advocating. It's too bad Sen. Sanders is tagged so thoroughly as a "socialist", "liberal" and "populist", to the point that in many situations his actual ideas aren't gone into beyond that. Thanks for the article, though, and please do more.
38
It's so refreshing to be able to support a Democratic candidate that is not financed by and cozy with corporations, untainted by scandals or questionable ethics, does not change position only after seeing polls supporting her competition's policies, and one who you know can actually relate to the lives of the middle class.
I've never contributed to a candidate before, because what's the point of my measly few dollars to a candidate that gets millions from special interests, but I'm definitely contributing to Bernie Sanders.
So sad, isn't it, that someone who sounds so reasonable and wanting America to be promising for all its citizens, has been treated with such indifference and doubt by the media just because he doesn't have a ridiculous amount of campaign funds. Shameful that the amount of money a candidate is provided with is treated as more of a factor to be president than actual good ideas.
I've never contributed to a candidate before, because what's the point of my measly few dollars to a candidate that gets millions from special interests, but I'm definitely contributing to Bernie Sanders.
So sad, isn't it, that someone who sounds so reasonable and wanting America to be promising for all its citizens, has been treated with such indifference and doubt by the media just because he doesn't have a ridiculous amount of campaign funds. Shameful that the amount of money a candidate is provided with is treated as more of a factor to be president than actual good ideas.
42
I think it is not just that Sanders doesn't have a lot of campaign funds. IMO it is more because he does not represent the corporate status quo and as such, speaks truth to power. That does not go over well in the boardrooms.
23
Both Trump and Bernie have the luxury of taking pure-form positions, as they have no need to accommodate anybody.
What most of us all wish for is someone equally animated but who lives in the middle. Who embraces common sense, not naive spendthrift socialism, not wacko hateful conservatism.
Why is it that reasonable people get so easily displaced by the pure-form haranguers? We so sorely need a Truman, a Teddy Roosevelt, someone who has a pragmatic take on society and (unlike Obama) knows how to get things done, and is not afraid to take on the vast number of people and institutions who are just working the system for their own benefit, both on the left and the right.
Where is that person?
What most of us all wish for is someone equally animated but who lives in the middle. Who embraces common sense, not naive spendthrift socialism, not wacko hateful conservatism.
Why is it that reasonable people get so easily displaced by the pure-form haranguers? We so sorely need a Truman, a Teddy Roosevelt, someone who has a pragmatic take on society and (unlike Obama) knows how to get things done, and is not afraid to take on the vast number of people and institutions who are just working the system for their own benefit, both on the left and the right.
Where is that person?
2
If Teddy Roosevelt and Franklin D had a baby Statesman, it would be Bernie Sanders. He is not as far left fringe as the media wants you to believe.
8
Try the quiz on isidewith.com to see which candidate from either party you most agree with.
4
Great article! It does seem like something fundamentally different is happening with Bernie--he is getting much more "mainstream" media attention than anti-corporatists usually get. It's a very good sign when these personal-history articles start to appear, because it means interest in him is rising so much he can't be ignored and swept under the rug, the usual fate of most non-"centrist" candidates.
One minor quibble:
"Now, as he challenges the current Democratic powerhouse, Mrs. Clinton..."
Hillary Clinton is a "powerhouse" only when it comes to the moneyed interests. No progressive Dem I know (and they are legion) wants Hillary Clinton. Instead we are all burning up the Internet with information about the candidates, and are continually networking for Bernie. Hillary's got the money, but we got the numbers--and it will show more and more as this race progresses.
BERNIE IN '16
One minor quibble:
"Now, as he challenges the current Democratic powerhouse, Mrs. Clinton..."
Hillary Clinton is a "powerhouse" only when it comes to the moneyed interests. No progressive Dem I know (and they are legion) wants Hillary Clinton. Instead we are all burning up the Internet with information about the candidates, and are continually networking for Bernie. Hillary's got the money, but we got the numbers--and it will show more and more as this race progresses.
BERNIE IN '16
42
I grew up in your neighborhood, Bernie Sanders, also attended P.S.197, James Madison H.S., and Brooklyn College as well! I believe we were in the same year at school though I haven't checked my yearbook yet. I graduated from JMHS in January '58. I frequented the same spots that you did; Kings Highway, Avalon Tea Room , Nostrand Ave. Theater. We may have sat in the same class rooms though I don't remember your name.I wonder if you attended the 50th reunion, but I doubt it because you would have been recognized for sure.
Strangely enough I am now a neighbor of the Clintons and have of course met them as many others have in town. I have always been loyal to Hillary, (and very much to President Obama.)!
But I must say that I applaud your values and ideas and if you win I will be proud to have been your school mate and neighbor for 13 years!
Strangely enough I am now a neighbor of the Clintons and have of course met them as many others have in town. I have always been loyal to Hillary, (and very much to President Obama.)!
But I must say that I applaud your values and ideas and if you win I will be proud to have been your school mate and neighbor for 13 years!
4
I understand the fear of many Democrats to give even a hint of support to Bernie Sanders. I get it. According to Barney Frank he won’t receive a significant amount of votes, and democrats may as well lend their support to Hillary early and stop this nonsense. Others fear a possible Ralph Nader debacle as happened in 2000. Yes, I’m still angry at that, too. However, Mr. Nader never held a political office or possessed the political standing or skills that Mr. Sanders has accumulated. Mr. Nader never came close to the kind message that is resonating, and wildly surging, in the same way that is happening all over the country. Ladies and gentlemen, I stood there in Phoenix, AZ; Arizona, the social and political laughing stock of the nation, the state the country loves to hate, I stood with over 11,000 other people who believe there is another way other than this short-sighted lockstep toward a Hillary- Jeb/Trump/Rubio/Walker showdown. Like a young senator who no one believed could take the nomination away from Hillary back in 2008, I believe this elder statesman has plenty of time to come from behind and surprise the pundits, cynics, and a majority of this country.
38
Ralph Nader did not run in the Democratic primaries. He ran as a third party candidate in the general election. Big difference.
2
My dad was a member of the '48 graduating class at Madison, and often mentions the school's many accomplished alumni (including Bernie).
29
My dad was in the 45 class, my mom 46...What an outstanding place
4
I am the same age and lived in Flatbush on Avenue L between 21st and 22nd Sts. Went to PS 193 but moved to Long Island before high school. I really wish Bernie had a chance to win.
8
“I really wish Bernie had a chance to win.”
He does! The pundits want you to believe that underdogs can’t win. Nothing could be further from the truth. The fact is the corporate, political, and media establishment are threatened by Bernie's populist message. There is no question that he would win in a general election as he would attract support from some conservatives and those who stay home because Washington does not represent them.
The Corporate Media Would Like You to Think Bernie Sanders Can’t Win
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/05/22/1386790/-The-Corporate-Media-Wo...
“Over the last 40 years, out of seven races in which the Democratic nomination was up for grabs underdogs have won the nomination either three or four times (depending on your definition of an underdog) and have gone on to win the presidency more often than favored candidates.
“Jimmy Carter wasn't even on anyone's radar at this point in the campaign and polled at 1 percent. But he won because voters had had it up to here with insiders.
“If you don’t see a parallel to the present moment—a discontented time of Occupy, Black Lives Matter, Moral Monday, Fight for $15, the People’s Climate March, Move to Amend, and other anti-establishmentarian agitation—you’re either asleep or a publisher.
“Likewise Michael Dukakis, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama were dark horses who came out of nowhere, polling-wise, this early in the game, to win their respective races.
He does! The pundits want you to believe that underdogs can’t win. Nothing could be further from the truth. The fact is the corporate, political, and media establishment are threatened by Bernie's populist message. There is no question that he would win in a general election as he would attract support from some conservatives and those who stay home because Washington does not represent them.
The Corporate Media Would Like You to Think Bernie Sanders Can’t Win
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/05/22/1386790/-The-Corporate-Media-Wo...
“Over the last 40 years, out of seven races in which the Democratic nomination was up for grabs underdogs have won the nomination either three or four times (depending on your definition of an underdog) and have gone on to win the presidency more often than favored candidates.
“Jimmy Carter wasn't even on anyone's radar at this point in the campaign and polled at 1 percent. But he won because voters had had it up to here with insiders.
“If you don’t see a parallel to the present moment—a discontented time of Occupy, Black Lives Matter, Moral Monday, Fight for $15, the People’s Climate March, Move to Amend, and other anti-establishmentarian agitation—you’re either asleep or a publisher.
“Likewise Michael Dukakis, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama were dark horses who came out of nowhere, polling-wise, this early in the game, to win their respective races.
23
If everyone who said they'd vote for Bernie if they thought he had a chance would in fact vote for him, I think he'd win! Wait till primary day! he's my choice, for sure (although I'll vote for any Democrat in the general election, and I sure hope that it's Bernie I'm voting for).
15
Obama was an underdog! Underdogs can and do win!
11
The perfect candidate for the affluent craft brew, artisan pizza demographic. Say hello to Ralph Nader (circa 2000).
2
Why would you compare Bernie Sanders to Ralph Nader? Sanders is not running as a third party candidate. He has said he will not be a spoiler, i.e., he will not run as an independent in the general election.
13
The perfect candidate for working people.
As for Nader, he ran as an independent; Bernie is running for the democratic nomination for President.
As for Nader, he ran as an independent; Bernie is running for the democratic nomination for President.
13
Excuse me, but his pizza is a slice and a coke on Nostrand Avenue, not the artisan pizza with craft beer. He's the real deal.
20
There is a lot to admire in Bernie Sanders. It takes some nerve in the current political paradigm to describe oneself as a socialist, the term has been so demonized by the Right. He may be the most honest man in Washington. To see Bernie go head-to-head in a debate with any Republican would be a joy. He is always sure of what he believes and can explain why. The Republicans on the other hand are devoid of facts or sound rationale to explain anything, but they are very sure nonetheless.
97
As a native Vermonter who has followed Bernie for years, I can assure you that any debate will not leave you disappointed. He is always totally in command of the facts, never makes personal attacks, and I have never seen him shaken. I would take many months of practice sessions for any of the republicans to sit on the same stage with him. When the time comes, get a big bowl of popcorn and enjoy the show.
5
Hillary head to head first!
This will be harder than Obama's primary fight.
Hugely under reported is how Wall St (Jamie Dimon…..from JP Morgan) saved Obama financially, midway through the primary season…..
Bernie isn't taking wall st money or fossil fuel $…no Super Pac
He will need millions of us to get out the vote IN THE SPRING 2016 for the Primary
This will be harder than Obama's primary fight.
Hugely under reported is how Wall St (Jamie Dimon…..from JP Morgan) saved Obama financially, midway through the primary season…..
Bernie isn't taking wall st money or fossil fuel $…no Super Pac
He will need millions of us to get out the vote IN THE SPRING 2016 for the Primary
4
Bernie always replies that he is an "American socialist," a distinction important to him.
I would venture that American socialism is the socialism we live with every day, such as Social Security, child labor laws. It reflects our experience that pure capitalism is not a viable form of government, but needs to be merged with government standards and protections for the common good.
Harks back to government "of the people, by the people and for the people." Let's not see it "perish from this earth."
I would venture that American socialism is the socialism we live with every day, such as Social Security, child labor laws. It reflects our experience that pure capitalism is not a viable form of government, but needs to be merged with government standards and protections for the common good.
Harks back to government "of the people, by the people and for the people." Let's not see it "perish from this earth."
3
Bernie Sanders' candidacy is to me reinvigorating as no other candidate has been for quite some time. I, like him, am from a family that is a transplant originally from Brooklyn. So I tend to share many, if not a vast majority, of his ideas and viewpoints.
For those who think that he is too far to the left, they should be reminded that we have had far too many politicians seeking national office over the last several decades who have tried tacking to the middle or, worse, to right of center. It has gotten us nowhere. Its time to try something different.
For those who think that he is too far to the left, they should be reminded that we have had far too many politicians seeking national office over the last several decades who have tried tacking to the middle or, worse, to right of center. It has gotten us nowhere. Its time to try something different.
90
Bernie has marched with MLK Jr. and been a supporter of minorities' Rights throughout his life, both before and during is terms of office. He is the best friend anyone could want because of his straight forward policies and his sticking to his principles regardless of those who preach against them.
If you're like me and have been seeking an honest person to vote for you've picked the right man by supporting Bernie. He doesn't deny his roots (is proud of them in fact) and is the modern day equivalent of one having been brought up in a log cabin. If you look to Wikipedia under the topic of Social Democrat you will see Bernie's stance in spades. A man for the people he cherishes and one looking to reform the society we live in so as to level the playing field for all.
If you're like me and have been seeking an honest person to vote for you've picked the right man by supporting Bernie. He doesn't deny his roots (is proud of them in fact) and is the modern day equivalent of one having been brought up in a log cabin. If you look to Wikipedia under the topic of Social Democrat you will see Bernie's stance in spades. A man for the people he cherishes and one looking to reform the society we live in so as to level the playing field for all.
39
Please.
He was astute enough to get out of Chicago just after his involvement with SNCC. And what did he do? The progressive thing, he moved to Vermont which was 99% white.
If a white person were to move from a large city, with a significant African-American or Hispanic population, to a suburb that was 99% (or 95%) white, what do you think Bernie Sanders would have to say about it? "It's what progressives are doing"?
With the latest focus on racial profiling of cities by the Obama administration, it will be interesting to see and hear Sanders preach racial diversity. Forget about the moral authority angle.
He was astute enough to get out of Chicago just after his involvement with SNCC. And what did he do? The progressive thing, he moved to Vermont which was 99% white.
If a white person were to move from a large city, with a significant African-American or Hispanic population, to a suburb that was 99% (or 95%) white, what do you think Bernie Sanders would have to say about it? "It's what progressives are doing"?
With the latest focus on racial profiling of cities by the Obama administration, it will be interesting to see and hear Sanders preach racial diversity. Forget about the moral authority angle.
1
This is the silliest thing I've read about Sanders' stance on race relations all afternoon. Vermont is a beautiful place. There are many reasons to want to move there besides the ethnic makeup of your hometown. I don't think I've ever heard Sanders say anything about where other candidates live.
10
You're criticizing someone for moving to Vermont?
11
I can relate, having grown up in the Bronx, graduating from high school in 1968.
My recollection is that "we were all in in it together" back then. Despite many subjects of debate, it seemed that we would all rise and fall as one. Today, the emerging theme has been "you are on your own." I'll take the old days of the Bronx and Brooklyn anytime over that scenario.
My recollection is that "we were all in in it together" back then. Despite many subjects of debate, it seemed that we would all rise and fall as one. Today, the emerging theme has been "you are on your own." I'll take the old days of the Bronx and Brooklyn anytime over that scenario.
25
The background of each candidate is significant, as it sets a precedent for their future world view. Clearly, Sanders' reflex has been to help those without a voice from his early years on, and there's no reason to assume that his metric would change when he reaches a higher political office.
27
When Bernie came to South Carolina, Columbie, we went out of respect, not seriously thinking he might win. Now after reading this piece and about his perseverence we think he may actually win.
37
Thank you N.Y.T. for your article: it makes me want to stand up and cheer, not just because we have at long last a candidate who is the real deal, who will stand up for all the American people; in particular I appreciate an article about a Jew like the guys I grew up, Guys like Bernie Sanders, not the jerk off hedge fund guys we have to read about daily: I love you Bernie.
37
Hillary must be in serious trouble. First The Times had to change its article about the IG's investigation of her and now this.
26
Bernie needs to win the minority vote to have a chance to unseat Hillary and the Republicans. Of course his policies will positively affect them, something his handlers must demonstrate vociforously. He has many things working against him, his age in particular, but his policies in Vermont, his humanistic and progressive points of view and his roots, which certainly are closer to those of the average American than Hillary or any Repub, can propel him to victory.
I thought his story echoed the family in Death of a Salesman, quoting the great line, 'attention MUST BE PAID'. YES, Bernie it will!
I thought his story echoed the family in Death of a Salesman, quoting the great line, 'attention MUST BE PAID'. YES, Bernie it will!
8
Did you know that as a student at the University of Chicago, he joined the Congress of Racial Equality and the Student Non Violet Coordinating Committee, and marched with Dr. King in 1963 to Washington? When that becomes common knowledge, the calculus will be different.
30
Thank you, New York Times, for *finally* featuring Bernie Sanders prominently in a full length story. This feature about Senator Sanders' roots is informative and revealing.
I applaud the Senator's ambition, intellect, work ethic and tenacity as a young man, as well as the loyalty that he and his brother showed their mother. These are decent people with a strong moral compass.
I hope that this story marks an ongoing improvement in the Times' coverage of the Sanders campaign, which has-- with the exception of this story-- been sparse and inadequate. Sanders' growing popularity and fundraising success deserves serious coverage.
I applaud the Senator's ambition, intellect, work ethic and tenacity as a young man, as well as the loyalty that he and his brother showed their mother. These are decent people with a strong moral compass.
I hope that this story marks an ongoing improvement in the Times' coverage of the Sanders campaign, which has-- with the exception of this story-- been sparse and inadequate. Sanders' growing popularity and fundraising success deserves serious coverage.
49
“He is 100 percent Brooklyn,” said Larry Sanders, the candidate’s older brother.
Unlike that Arkansas carpetbagger and phony Hillary.
Go Bernie!
Unlike that Arkansas carpetbagger and phony Hillary.
Go Bernie!
32
Refreshing to read a piece about a Democratic candidate that is neither a brutal hatchet job nor about Hillary.
41
Hilary and her handlers should read these reader comments to understand why her current path will never lead to the Democratic nomination. For all her smarts she just does not get "authenticity." Too bad.
26
I'm so excited that I finally received my "Bernie 2016" bumper sticker and t-shirt this week. Bernie is by far the best presidential candidate for all Americans. Go Progressives!
27
I like Hillary; but I am taking a real good second look at Bernie Sanders because I really like what he stand for today. And this article tells me that his current positions are in his bones, not like all of these come day-go day GOP candidates who will say or do anything to get noticed, let alone elected.
29
I like Hillary enough to vote for her over a republican alternative, but as a liberal, I LOVE Bernie!
8
I saw Bernard Sanders very briefly on Television the other night outlining his platform and I found him to be very acutely cerebral. He was very smart and not inhibited by age. He's lucky. Although I was impressed, I still won't vote but find him to be a worthy and capable candidate.
3
The world could always use a little more Brooklyn, those like Senator Bernie Sanders, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsburg, NYC Public Advocate Letitia James or the late, great Representative Shirley Chisholm. All honorable public servants of distinction. Brooklyn, "Unbought & Unbossed."
92
Thank you for covering the one presidential candidate that is not corporate sponsored! He has my vote!
37
Run Bernie, run right over Ms. Hillary, and do it quickly. Can the honesty of Bernie be defeated? Sure, with Ms. Hillary's machine. We get the government we deserve.
12
Senator Bernie Sanders = authentic
26
Sanders is a carpetbagger; he only moved to Brooklyn 70 years ago so he could run for President. Go Hillary!
5
Not for anything NY Times, but HIllary was anything but a NY'er, she was when it suited her needs, she is and always will be an opportunist who looks out only for herself. Should she be the pick of the DNC she will not get my vote.
15
When will people stop voting based on personality politics? Does it really matter what this guy's "roots" are or aren't after he gets thrown to the wolves of the super-PACs? Do you think he's wondering what little Billy in his Brooklyn neighborhood would have wanted when he's consulting focus groups on the best phrasing of his next address?
Oh but he's *authentic*; he's something new; a fresh voice; an outsider. Do people even hear themselves when they say these things? Do they realize what it takes to be a national politician these days? A candidate is simply the end result of a series of carefully calculated decisions made by people with incomprehensible sums of money. The personality is a brand, nothing else.
Oh but he's *authentic*; he's something new; a fresh voice; an outsider. Do people even hear themselves when they say these things? Do they realize what it takes to be a national politician these days? A candidate is simply the end result of a series of carefully calculated decisions made by people with incomprehensible sums of money. The personality is a brand, nothing else.
19
If anything, Bernie Sanders' brand should be "long-time politician." He's been a Congressman and Senator for so long, he can be considered an insider.
1
Personality politics? Sanders is the real deal.
"[As mayor of Burlington] we took on the special interests. Against the wishes of developers and railroad, we created a people-oriented waterfront and bike path on Lake Champlain. We developed the first municipal housing land trust for affordable housing. We won recognition for urban beautification by planting thousands of trees and made improvements to our streets. We implemented the largest environmental program in the state’s history by building a waste-water facility to prevent untreated waste from going into the lake. We started a Youth Office which created a day care center, a little-league program, after-school programs and a teen center. We were the first city in Vermont to break its dependence on the regressive property tax. We made changes in the police department, moving to community policing. We started a Arts Council and Women’s Council. Burlington is now one of the most livable small cities in America."
Sanders' congressional record: He has taken on big money interests and he gets things done. He was the first member of Congress to take Americans across the Canadian border to purchase prescription drugs. He worked with Jim Clyburn on adding $12 billion for community health centers. He worked with Bob Menendez on adding billions into weatherization and sustainable energy. Last year, he worked with John McCain and Jeff Miller on a veterans bill, one of the only major pieces of legislation passed in recent years.
"[As mayor of Burlington] we took on the special interests. Against the wishes of developers and railroad, we created a people-oriented waterfront and bike path on Lake Champlain. We developed the first municipal housing land trust for affordable housing. We won recognition for urban beautification by planting thousands of trees and made improvements to our streets. We implemented the largest environmental program in the state’s history by building a waste-water facility to prevent untreated waste from going into the lake. We started a Youth Office which created a day care center, a little-league program, after-school programs and a teen center. We were the first city in Vermont to break its dependence on the regressive property tax. We made changes in the police department, moving to community policing. We started a Arts Council and Women’s Council. Burlington is now one of the most livable small cities in America."
Sanders' congressional record: He has taken on big money interests and he gets things done. He was the first member of Congress to take Americans across the Canadian border to purchase prescription drugs. He worked with Jim Clyburn on adding $12 billion for community health centers. He worked with Bob Menendez on adding billions into weatherization and sustainable energy. Last year, he worked with John McCain and Jeff Miller on a veterans bill, one of the only major pieces of legislation passed in recent years.
14
Your statement is mostly true for all the other candidates, Hillary included. But what sets Sanders apart is that he IS genuine and cannot be bought even though he's been a politician for decades. The people who voted him into office got the advertised product and had their expectations exceeded. He is not a "brand" like all the others. He is truly a "peoples" candidate. I just hope that all the would-be Hillary voters place the needs of the Country above the perceived "need" to elect the first woman President for gender's sake - that can wait. The people getting fleeced by Wall Street and Hillary's banker friends, cannot.
12
Sanders is the only one who can stake a claim to the highest office of the President of the United States of America i.e the only one who is honest and who really cares about the trials and tribulations facing the 99% of Americans today. He actually means what he says. Blunt to the point of self-destruction, he is unafraid to face the greedy, self serving establishment. He is incorruptible and he will not curry favor from vested interests. He is no hypocrite trying to win elections with empty rhetoric.He is the only one with a plausible vision for all Americans, a bright future. And these are not voodoo, grandiose illusions. His ideas are achievable and he has concrete plans to do that. But alas! He has one big drawback - He is No Politician. He has no patience for suffering fools or for that matter liars gladly. He has no time to cuddle babies, go to diners and feign listening to inane nonsense. With him you get, what you see. Unfortunately for us the criteria for office of President has devolved into lies, noise, negativity, lobbying, money,greed and avarice. And we get conned by the best who represent all these traits. Sadly, we will not get this jewel to lead us because a good, decent man with integrity has absolutely no chance these days.
10
I truly hope you are incorrect.
Sanders in 2016
Sanders in 2016
6
NI, the reason that Bernie can win is that the vast majority of Americans are just as angry as you. I'm one of them. After 35 years of corporate dominance we suddenly realize that our country has been sold out from under us. Bernie offers us one last chance to stop the foreclosure of our future. Once people get angry enough, relentless corporatist TV ads will only reinforce their opposition. And for once in a long while, people are angry enough. They are over it. They don't need a 30-second spot to know they're ready for Bernie. People sense that Bernie may be their last chance for a decent President. Their fight for Bernie will give him much more than a fighting chance.
4
As somebody who has periodically followed the career of Bernie Sanders since he was the mayor of Burlington VT in the 1980s, I always found him to be the consummate politician who used the term 'socialism' to market himself. I remember when Bernie was mayor of Burlington and he was accused of paying for homeless people to relocate to Portland because they had better benefits for homeless people than Vermont. Did this really happen? I haven't seen this reported on since the mid-80s. Also, when I was an undergraduate, Bernie was a visiting professor at my SUNY campus. Bernie presented a similar lecture at all his appearances in which he would describe how the system was rigged toward his wealthy students at Harvard. Did Bernie stay at a state university to educate the students of the 99%? No, he returned to Harvard to teach the students he vilified to us. At least from my knowledge, Bernie is just another opportunistic politician willing play the role of a socialist for the sake of self promotion.
12
A bit surprised this post was a NYT Pick. The November 20, 1988 NYT article entitled "Homeless Get Ticket to Leave" specifically addresses and refutes the remarks regarding matter of homelessness in Burlington. According to the article, it was a local businessman (Dennis Morrisseau) who was offering homeless people a one-way ticket out of town. With respect to then-Mayor Sanders, the article states: "''The problem of homelessness is national tragedy caused by major cutbacks in Federal spending,'' said Bernard Sanders, a socialist who is Mayor of Burlington. ''The solution is not transporting homeless people from one end of this country to another. The solution is to provide affordable housing and counseling.''" And Sanders didn't turn his back on the state university students of the 99% to return to teach wealthy students Harvard. To the best of my knowledge, he only taught one semester at Harvard and that was in the fall of 1989; he taught at SUNY (and Hamilton College) in the spring of 1990 and, in the fall of 1990, was elected to Congress.
10
You are apparently unaware you serve up a huge compliment to Bernie in your opening sentence. "Consummate": showing a high degree of skill and flair; complete or perfect. Laughable criticism!
6
Bingo!
1
In lieu of Elizabeth, Bernie's the one. A straight talker who is running out of a sense of common decency, who was not raised to be the monarch. He's the only one fit for the office.
21
Nice to have a real New Yorker, who did it on his own in the race, unlike the faux New Yorker who came via Illinois and Arkansas and is here on her husbands coattails.
21
I don't think Sanders has a chance to win against the Republican nominee. If he did I'd seriously consider voting for him in the primary, much as I relish the thought of Hilary in the White House. He is that good. But the media and the Republican machine will destroy any chance he might have.
1
Hmm, is it the media and the Republican machine or is it ultimately the voter? Unless the individuals who will cast ballots for this election have been living on Pluto for the last twenty years, I believe everyone pretty much knows what Bernie Sanders and those who will vehemently oppose him stand for.
9
I think that he's the only one who has a chance. It's all about turnout and nothing turns people out better than enthusiasm. The second biggest draw is strong negative feelings. Deserved or not, Mrs. Clinton still engenders a lot of white-hot hate from right-wing radicals. I wish I had a dime for every time I have heard one of the say that they can't wait to vote against her.
8
DLP, your stated position ("the media and the Republican machine will destroy any chance he might have") is so depressed or jaded it made my heart cry out for your state of mind. There is a cure that is stronger than such depression: Bernie Sanders.
You can be part of something really good for America if you will change your mind about Mr. Sanders having a chance to win. I think it is going to happen because there are not as many Republicans in America as you may imagine. Bernie CAN win!
You can be part of something really good for America if you will change your mind about Mr. Sanders having a chance to win. I think it is going to happen because there are not as many Republicans in America as you may imagine. Bernie CAN win!
6
Whether Bernie Sanders can defeat Hillary or not (and whether he could win a general election or not), his candidacy can help to focus ALL of the Democratic candidates on progressive politics. In short, while the odds are still strong that Hillary Clinton will win the Democratic nomination (if not the general election thereafter), if she does get the nomination my prediction is that she will be a stronger and much more relevant candidate in the general election because Bernie made her think about what the Democratic party really is supposed to represent. That, in and of itself, is reason enough for me to support Bernie while he still has a chance.
12
I like Mr. Sanders quite a lot. But I think he should stay in Congress where he can help get some of his ideas enacted. As President, it will never be possible. Even the simplest efforts are blocked by an intransigent Congress. He and Elizabeth Warren need to start their own liberal cabal and force some of these loudmouths on the right to heel.
And, to be honest, Mr. Sanders yells a populist message, but can he deal with ISIL? Can he deal with Bibi? How about Putin? Wall Street? Can he make the hard calls where there aren't any good choices? I'm not seeing it, at least not yet.
Right now, I'm sorry to say, he is the Left's version of Donald Trump. He sounds good to liberals but the rest of the country is gagging.
And, to be honest, Mr. Sanders yells a populist message, but can he deal with ISIL? Can he deal with Bibi? How about Putin? Wall Street? Can he make the hard calls where there aren't any good choices? I'm not seeing it, at least not yet.
Right now, I'm sorry to say, he is the Left's version of Donald Trump. He sounds good to liberals but the rest of the country is gagging.
2
The left's version of Trump? Not even close. How on earth could you conclude that?
8
BERNIE sanders is a tough man, and he does not have a economical connections as other candidates (including Hillary Clinton) .
3
No, he’s much smarter than Trump.
8
Much better than your other articles. If we work hard maybe, just maybe, we can actually elect a president for all of us.
20
Wow, look at NYT finally getting real! Now how about some non snarky coverage of other Dems in the race?
11
I have 0 interest in New Yorkers who leave New York and try to claim New York. Ridiculous. Hillary is more of a New Yorker to me.
2
You do realize it's kinda funny when a guy in Hawaii has very strict standards about who is and who is not, a *real* New Yorker, right?
8
Bernie Sanders embodies the 'straight-up honest', hardworking, straight-talking tough-but-funny Brooklyn. Call it pre-artisanal bklyn.
The same Flatbush neighborhood produced Chuck Shumer, the notorious RBG (Ruth Bader Ginsburg), former prosecutor Pat Fitzgerald, and dozens of first responders who ran into the towers on 9/11.
The same Flatbush neighborhood produced Chuck Shumer, the notorious RBG (Ruth Bader Ginsburg), former prosecutor Pat Fitzgerald, and dozens of first responders who ran into the towers on 9/11.
19
Bernie Sanders is the FDR of the 21st century. As mayor of Burlington his administration successfully took on virtually every powerful special interest; he has done the same in Congress. Sanders takes no corporate money, no superPAC money, and he will not appoint Wall Street cronies and corporate lobbyists.
Bernie Sanders: “The unprecedented struggle that we’re engaged in now against the billionaire class is not just about preserving Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, or whether we create the millions of jobs our economy desperately needs. It’s not merely about whether we raise the minimum wage, make college affordable, protect women’s rights or take the bold initiatives we need to reverse climate change. It’s not just about creating a health care system which guarantees health care to all as a right, or addressing the abysmally high rate of childhood poverty.
“The real struggle is whether we can prevent this country from moving to an oligarchic form of society in which virtually all economic and political power rests with a handful of billionaires. And that’s a struggle we must win.”
Sanders’ Agenda for America: 12 Steps Forward
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/agenda/
The media portrays progressive policies as far left. Actually, a majority of Americans support the positions in Sanders’ economic plan.
Bernie Sanders: “The unprecedented struggle that we’re engaged in now against the billionaire class is not just about preserving Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, or whether we create the millions of jobs our economy desperately needs. It’s not merely about whether we raise the minimum wage, make college affordable, protect women’s rights or take the bold initiatives we need to reverse climate change. It’s not just about creating a health care system which guarantees health care to all as a right, or addressing the abysmally high rate of childhood poverty.
“The real struggle is whether we can prevent this country from moving to an oligarchic form of society in which virtually all economic and political power rests with a handful of billionaires. And that’s a struggle we must win.”
Sanders’ Agenda for America: 12 Steps Forward
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/agenda/
The media portrays progressive policies as far left. Actually, a majority of Americans support the positions in Sanders’ economic plan.
49
Great quote, but the link didn't work for me. Try this:
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/bernie-sanders-brookings-institution
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/bernie-sanders-brookings-institution
I think I'm in love..."
30
At this point, Bernie Sanders is the only legitimate candidate, from either party!
47
He seems authentic = unlike Hillary who won't even answer reporters' questions.
46
As a "native son" New York politicians should be lining up to support him!
42
They and most politicians won't though cause they're cowards and would rather see a automaton like HRC in office, she of slight (?) accomplishments as SOS and Senator.........she who caters to the upper echelon who really don't need help, yup a career pol who looks out for herself. That's exactly what we need.
GO BERNIE!!!!!
GO BERNIE!!!!!
6
Three cheers for Bernie Sanders. Finally we get a human being as a candidate for president instead of a party hack, or a would-be royal family prince, or one of the collection of wonder boy college debaters.
66
A breath of fresh air in an otherwise foul smelling stench of candidates from both parties.
He's got my vote.
He's got my vote.
66
The more information and coverage we can get on Bernie the better; more people need to hear how intelligent, well-spoken, honest and hard-working he is.
Democrats, please don't just through your vote to Hilary just because you feel like you're supposed to. Bernie has a real shot to win this thing the sooner people wake up from the get-in-line mentality voting has turned into of late.
Do more than 5 minutes of research on the candidate you might help put into the most powerful office in the world. You might be surprised at what you find.
Democrats, please don't just through your vote to Hilary just because you feel like you're supposed to. Bernie has a real shot to win this thing the sooner people wake up from the get-in-line mentality voting has turned into of late.
Do more than 5 minutes of research on the candidate you might help put into the most powerful office in the world. You might be surprised at what you find.
59
Bernie gets my vote!
57
Am I the only one here. I am begining to notice a string of non newsworthy, favorable, folksy articles about Bernie Sanders here. This contrasts with strings of viciously negative strings of coverage of some who have exponentially greater chances of becoming president. I know many readers like positive coverage of those they agree with, and negative coverage of those with whom they disagree. In fact, some may automatically assume that such coverage is objective because they believe their own opinions are factual.
But the amount of coverage, let alone favorable coverage, received by Mr. Sanders is disproportionate to his status in the race, and hints of an agenda.
By the way, don't get me wrong. Maybe I would vote for him. I just want to see balanced coverage.
But the amount of coverage, let alone favorable coverage, received by Mr. Sanders is disproportionate to his status in the race, and hints of an agenda.
By the way, don't get me wrong. Maybe I would vote for him. I just want to see balanced coverage.
2
Funny you say that, because Bernie is polling better right now that literally every single Republican candidate. The only candidate polling better than Bernie is Hillary.
"proportional" article representation? Sounds like you want more coverage about Bernie.
"proportional" article representation? Sounds like you want more coverage about Bernie.
7
Finally the New York Times prints a single article about Bernie Sanders that isn't overwhelmed by snark and skepticism and you are concerned about balance. Hmmm.
8
Sometimes it's easy to forget the obvious, but the New York Times' readership is still largely New York City - based. Coverage of Brooklyn-bred Bernie Sanders is automatically of local interest. You're reading an article about a hometown boy, not just someone in the race for the presidency.
6
Ms. Clinton supported George Bush on Iraq ... Bernie did not.
Ms. Clinton supported fast track and TPP ... Bernie did not.
Ms. Clinton's top ten donors are "too big to fail" banks ... Bernie has twice introduced legislation to limit these banks.
Ms. Clinton has become vastly rich trading on political influence ... Bernie has not.
I do not know how a true progressive can support Ms. Clinton, let alone support her instead of Bernie.
Ms. Clinton supported fast track and TPP ... Bernie did not.
Ms. Clinton's top ten donors are "too big to fail" banks ... Bernie has twice introduced legislation to limit these banks.
Ms. Clinton has become vastly rich trading on political influence ... Bernie has not.
I do not know how a true progressive can support Ms. Clinton, let alone support her instead of Bernie.
88
Call them blind sheep who will vote for her simply because she is HIllary and that's enough for some people, myself? I prefer someone of substance and actually takes an unpopular stance, that seems to fit Bernie to a tee.
4
Also, Ms Clinton was on the Board of Directors of Walmart.
7
Those who do not understand the importance of compromise, like those Nader supporters of the year 2000, seem determined to hand the election to yet another Bush. Please show some insight. Bush III will do the final destruction of America.
15
Compromise? Last year, Bernie Sanders worked with John McCain and Rep. Jeff Miller (R) on a veterans bill, one of the ‘only’ major pieces of legislation passed in recent years.
How many conservative votes will Hillary Clinton get? None. Bernie Sanders will garner some conservative support.
In past elections, there were yard signs in Vermont supporting Bush/Bernie and Romney/Bernie. Can you imagine a similar situation with Hillary? No.
There are 'Republicans for Bernie' groups springing up across the country on Facebook and other social media. Can you imagine the same for Hillary? No.
Reason #1 to Vote Bernie: Sanders Does ‘BETTER Than Clinton’ Against GOP in Swing States
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/h-a-goodman/reason-1-to-vote-bernie-sander...
Why does Bernie have the ability to attract a wider swath of the electorate? As a commenter to Sanders’ speech at The Brookings Institution said, Sanders is:
“Pure awesome in politics, humanity, journey, integrity, background, citizenship, smarts, experience, etc., etc.”
The Brookings speech:
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/of-the-billionaires
How many conservative votes will Hillary Clinton get? None. Bernie Sanders will garner some conservative support.
In past elections, there were yard signs in Vermont supporting Bush/Bernie and Romney/Bernie. Can you imagine a similar situation with Hillary? No.
There are 'Republicans for Bernie' groups springing up across the country on Facebook and other social media. Can you imagine the same for Hillary? No.
Reason #1 to Vote Bernie: Sanders Does ‘BETTER Than Clinton’ Against GOP in Swing States
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/h-a-goodman/reason-1-to-vote-bernie-sander...
Why does Bernie have the ability to attract a wider swath of the electorate? As a commenter to Sanders’ speech at The Brookings Institution said, Sanders is:
“Pure awesome in politics, humanity, journey, integrity, background, citizenship, smarts, experience, etc., etc.”
The Brookings speech:
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/recent-business/of-the-billionaires
33
Good. Then we can build it better the second time around.
5
Yes. America was built on...compromise. Inspiring stuff.
3
Thank you for publishing this article.
39
You know, I have grown conservative in my middle age, but Bernie is my candidate. He is honest, genuine and real. That above all else makes me want to cheer. And work for his campaign!
71
I too went to Madison HS a few years after Bernie. Your article doesn't say what a wonderful education we got there. I also moved to Vermont a few years after Bernie did. His message to the Green Mountain State has remained consistent for almost 40 years. Many of us here root him on as a person who works for the people, not the oligarchy. Really, what politician with a Brooklyn accent could find backing from flat lander liberals and many generations on the farm conservative farmers. Only Bernie.
187
"It's great that the future president lived in my house".
That's my favorite sentence in the article.
Thanks for writing a great article about Bernie, NYT.
That's my favorite sentence in the article.
Thanks for writing a great article about Bernie, NYT.
58
Grew up in the Bronx, in Riverdale, and nothing Bernie stands for was anyway part of my upbringing or anyone else I knew.
I grew up and was educated in Sweden and came to America 50 years ago and I am all for Bernie. Is that good or bad???
5
Grew up Irish Catholic in Brooklyn; went to Catholic schools kindergarten through college; retired and have become a little more conservative, but Bernie says what I feel. I was planning to vote for Hillary but Bernie really represents my views and seems so "real" compared to her.
9
That's probably because many Riverdale residents are elitists who don't consider themselves part of the Bronx.
7
None of the other candidates, including Clinton, support policies for a sustainable future. All support the status quo with increasing wealth/income inequality and a shrinking middle class.
Sanders is about a sustainable future. Very admirable for someone who is later on in years and the only real hope for our grandchildren.
Believe in the future or perish in the present. It's our choice.
Sanders is about a sustainable future. Very admirable for someone who is later on in years and the only real hope for our grandchildren.
Believe in the future or perish in the present. It's our choice.
73
Spot on, I am getting misty-eyed. thank you ScottW.
4
“As Mr. Sanders, a senator from Vermont, draws large crowds on the campaign trail and enjoys an unexpected surge….”
Those of us who have been following Bernie Sanders are not surprised that he is rising in the polls as people learn about Sanders’ positions, authenticity, and record.
Sanders is the candidate who will represent the 99%, seek the support of the American people to advance a progressive agenda, address climate change in a bold way, and if elected president, he will have a litmus test for Supreme Court nominees who will say, “We are going to overturn Citizens United because that decision is undermining American democracy.”
Sanders is the candidate who supports strengthening financial regulation, breaking up the big banks, cracking down on offshore tax shelters, returning to progressive taxation, eliminating corporate tax loopholes, rewriting our disastrous trade agreements, and investing in our crumbling infrastructure.
Sanders is the candidate who will fight to bring health care to all and supports strengthening labor legislation, raising the minimum wage to a $15 living wage, pay equity for women, strengthening the social safety net, and making public universities free.
Sanders is the candidate who supports cutting the bloated military budget, reining in the NSA, net neutrality and GMO labeling; and he voted against the repeal of Glass-Steagall, the Iraq War, the Patriot Act and its reauthorization.
Those of us who have been following Bernie Sanders are not surprised that he is rising in the polls as people learn about Sanders’ positions, authenticity, and record.
Sanders is the candidate who will represent the 99%, seek the support of the American people to advance a progressive agenda, address climate change in a bold way, and if elected president, he will have a litmus test for Supreme Court nominees who will say, “We are going to overturn Citizens United because that decision is undermining American democracy.”
Sanders is the candidate who supports strengthening financial regulation, breaking up the big banks, cracking down on offshore tax shelters, returning to progressive taxation, eliminating corporate tax loopholes, rewriting our disastrous trade agreements, and investing in our crumbling infrastructure.
Sanders is the candidate who will fight to bring health care to all and supports strengthening labor legislation, raising the minimum wage to a $15 living wage, pay equity for women, strengthening the social safety net, and making public universities free.
Sanders is the candidate who supports cutting the bloated military budget, reining in the NSA, net neutrality and GMO labeling; and he voted against the repeal of Glass-Steagall, the Iraq War, the Patriot Act and its reauthorization.
94
I find it discouraging that the NYT's and other MSM are not reporting on the events that Mr. Sanders has.
I think I am not alone in being tired of and discouraged by the cynicism and what looks like manipulation of the media in the breathless reporting of every bleat by D. Trump.
I think I am not alone in being tired of and discouraged by the cynicism and what looks like manipulation of the media in the breathless reporting of every bleat by D. Trump.
7
A lifetime political hack, not unlike all the rest. The deification of this guy is amazing.
3
He may be a hack but he's the only one speaking truth to the problems we're facing which makes him the most eligible of the bunch.
5
Reality eludes you. He's very unlike the rest. If anyone's deifying this guy, it's because he's speaking to Americans honestly.
42
He is NOT a political hack. Until this summer, I had lived in Vermont for 35 years and watched Bernie closely as Mayor of Burlington, Member of Congress, and Senator. He says what he thinks and does what he says he is going to do. One measure of his integrity: rather than spending money on television ads, Bernie campaigned by holding free lunches throughout Vermont, during which he would give a speech. Old-fashioned, personal politics at its best. Bernie is the real thing.
68
Bernie you are awesome! But please... don't morph into Nader.
11
Better yet, don't morph into Al Gore who ran a terrible campaign. Demonizing Nader is plain lazy.
6
Throughout his long career as a public servant, Ralph Nader has shown himself a champion of the 99%. He is brilliant, tireless, with uncorruptible personal integrity. I hope Bernie is like him in every way.
The feature length movie about Nader, "An Unreasonable Man," makes a convincing case that Nader was not responsible for Gore's losing the 2000 election. Watch it and make up your own mind.
The feature length movie about Nader, "An Unreasonable Man," makes a convincing case that Nader was not responsible for Gore's losing the 2000 election. Watch it and make up your own mind.
8
Please leave Nader out of this.
6
I'm so happy to see a positive article about Bernie coming out of the NYT! Things were looking a little shaky for a while there. This one's a bit fluffy, but it's good journalism nonetheless and it's a fun read. Thank you!
39
Please, NYT: Less Trump, More Sanders! Thank you.
152
This otherwise excellent background piece leaves out what I would bet -- though do not know -- were three immense, interrelated, early influences on Sanders.
First would have been the 1951 confrontation between Ralph Branca and Bobby Thompson when, I expect, Sanders learned about community and collective heartbreak. The following four years would have taught him about how a community can pull itself up by its bootstraps, despite strenuous opposition from the wealthy enclave a dozen miles to the north, rebuilding from the depths, as Johnny Podres proved the community leader par excellence in 1955. Then, just two years later, the young Sanders would have learned never to trust adults, especially public figures, when a lying, self-serving Walter O'Malley betrayed the community, casting it into the depths from which it has yet to recover.
First would have been the 1951 confrontation between Ralph Branca and Bobby Thompson when, I expect, Sanders learned about community and collective heartbreak. The following four years would have taught him about how a community can pull itself up by its bootstraps, despite strenuous opposition from the wealthy enclave a dozen miles to the north, rebuilding from the depths, as Johnny Podres proved the community leader par excellence in 1955. Then, just two years later, the young Sanders would have learned never to trust adults, especially public figures, when a lying, self-serving Walter O'Malley betrayed the community, casting it into the depths from which it has yet to recover.
20
All Brooklyn Dodgers fans know whereof you speak, Steve Fankuchen.
Baseball is the stuff of life lessons.
Baseball is the stuff of life lessons.
7
Great piece, Steve, and I share your view of O'Malley who is probably turning on a spit over a slow fire down there. Problem is, I don't think Bernie would recognize a baseball if it it him in the face, thrown by Whitlow Wyatt or Kirby Higbie.
Yes, and if he'd stayed in the neighborhood, he'd have cheered for the Mets (managed by Gil Hodges from around the corner on Bedford Avenue and Joe Torre from Marine Park). That will teach you perseverance and respect for the underdog.
2
Finally, an article from the Times where Sanders isn't dissed as a "socialist."
It's about time.
Sanders draws crowds now. Just wait until he wins the first two primaries. Then let the games begin. He just might make Obama's '08 campaign crowds look small in comparison.
From my lips to God's ear.
Change you can believe in.
That's Bernie Sanders.
It's about time.
Sanders draws crowds now. Just wait until he wins the first two primaries. Then let the games begin. He just might make Obama's '08 campaign crowds look small in comparison.
From my lips to God's ear.
Change you can believe in.
That's Bernie Sanders.
92
I wonder why so many stories in the Times about Bernie Sanders focus on his "socialist roots" and not his current political thought, his platform, the bills he is recommending to congress, the numbers of people his campaign is attracting in red states like Arizona and Texas? I mean, The New York Times, the paper of "record," would never try to shape a narrative instead of merely reporting the actual narrative, would they?
49
Well said dan eades. Thank you.
4
Bernie Sanders is the real deal. I am confident he will win the presidency. He has what it takes. I just hope that once he gets there, that there is enough of the public behind him to get congress and the senate to go along with the reforms he is campaigning about now. This country needs a big shake up. We need to get money out of politics and stop corporations from running our government. We the people! should be running our government, not international corporate lawyers fashioning trade agreements for our future in secret.
64
What a great exposition of NYC with two popular candidates - Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump - who couldn't be more polar opposites.
Trump, a partying rich, egotistical kid who worked on furthering himself, and Sanders, a postwar activist who worked on furthering the causes of the poor and working class. Get the popcorn ready.
Trump, a partying rich, egotistical kid who worked on furthering himself, and Sanders, a postwar activist who worked on furthering the causes of the poor and working class. Get the popcorn ready.
53
Bernie Sanders is the reason why Jeb Bush, or some other RINO, will end up as our next president. This is Ross Perot 2.0.
1
People said that about Barack Obama as well. Wake up and smell the analogy
10
Maybe you're right, but there is something profoundly demoralizing about being told to vote for Tweedle Dee so that Tweedle Dum doesn't win. I'm tired of that argument and that course of action, and I won't follow it again - no matter how many times I see someone drag out Perot, or Nader or some other canard.
11
1. Bernie Sanders, while an Independent like Ross Perot, is running for the Democratic Party nomination for President. He has given no indication that he would run against the Democratic Party nominee if it turns out to be someone else.
2. When Ross Perot ran in the general election, a DINO, aka Bill Clinton, won - not a RINO.
Clinton was a DINO because he gutted AFDC, signed the bill that overturned Glass-Steagall, pushed for NAFTA, passed "don't ask don't tell" and DOMA, and couldn't define what "is" is - among other accomplishments. But he was still likely better for the US than either former President George H.W. Bush or Senator Bob Dole would have been - although either would likely have been as well respected. And both tower in stature and respect above any of the current "mainstream" Republican candidates for President, who look positively Lilliputian in comparison - with apologies to the citizens of Lilliput.
2. When Ross Perot ran in the general election, a DINO, aka Bill Clinton, won - not a RINO.
Clinton was a DINO because he gutted AFDC, signed the bill that overturned Glass-Steagall, pushed for NAFTA, passed "don't ask don't tell" and DOMA, and couldn't define what "is" is - among other accomplishments. But he was still likely better for the US than either former President George H.W. Bush or Senator Bob Dole would have been - although either would likely have been as well respected. And both tower in stature and respect above any of the current "mainstream" Republican candidates for President, who look positively Lilliputian in comparison - with apologies to the citizens of Lilliput.
4
Thank you so much for publishing this (relatively) long and prominently placed article about Bernie Sanders. Attention from the press (or lack thereof) can make or break a candidate, and it's seeming that the only way to get that attention is by making inflammatory and irresponsible statements. In addition, with the media viewing Hillary Clinton's candidacy a foregone conclusion, any other Democrat gets merely passing mention. Despite this, and without the help of big money, Bernie's support is booming. The public is owed adequate information about Senator Sanders and other candidates from both parties to allow for reasoned consideration of our choices.
47
I lived in Vermont for eleven years of Bernie-ism -a socialist who won his first election in Burlington when a Supreme Court decision allowed tens of thousands of college liberals at UVM to outvote the residents. From there to the House where he was accidentally elected because the NRA withdrew its support for the Republican. And so forth. A contemporary in Congress once told me when anyone sees him coming they duck into the nearest doorway. On the occasions when we met personally he was abusive when he learned I didn't share his socialistic nonsense. His biggest problem is he hasn't the faintest idea of what made America the great nation it is. He would drive businesses away, along with their jobs and the money they generate that he needs to pay for his outlandish ideas.
The only positive thing about him besides honesty is that he is, believe it or not, the choice over the other wing-nut currently in the news, initials DT.
And you left out Punchball as a Brooklyn street game.
The only positive thing about him besides honesty is that he is, believe it or not, the choice over the other wing-nut currently in the news, initials DT.
And you left out Punchball as a Brooklyn street game.
3
You're against socialism, we get it.
8
Redleg, I think Sanders is a far more mature and assimilated Senator than the picture you paint.
Your credibility comes into question as your narrative of him as a person who has gotten ahead only because accidental events in his favor have come across his path is deeply flawed.
He was re-elected 3 times as Burlington mayor.
You say he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1990 because the NRA withdrew support for his opponent. Then why was he re-elected 8 times, for 16 years after that?
If "and so forth" is supposed to apply to his Senate career--he was elected to the Senate in 2006 to succeed Jim Jeffords, and then re-elected in 2012 by a margin of 70% of the popular vote.
So the man has been in public office for an unbroken period of 34 years. He has a proven record.
Your credibility comes into question as your narrative of him as a person who has gotten ahead only because accidental events in his favor have come across his path is deeply flawed.
He was re-elected 3 times as Burlington mayor.
You say he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1990 because the NRA withdrew support for his opponent. Then why was he re-elected 8 times, for 16 years after that?
If "and so forth" is supposed to apply to his Senate career--he was elected to the Senate in 2006 to succeed Jim Jeffords, and then re-elected in 2012 by a margin of 70% of the popular vote.
So the man has been in public office for an unbroken period of 34 years. He has a proven record.
10
I too lived in Vermont for years and met Bernie many times, including professionally. I couldn't disagree with you more. I never saw or heard of him being "abusive." If by that you mean occasionally impatient with people who can't back up their ideas with facts, then I would agree. No one gets repeatedly elected mayor, then to congress, then to the senate without doing something right. By the way, Burlington businesses flourished while he was in office. It remains a beautiful, thriving, successful city because of many of his initiatives. And if corporate shills in congress try to avoid him, many of us would take that as a good sign.
15
Awhile back I suggested that Jim Webb and Jon Huntsman should run and hold debates, ignoring the "official" party pseudo-debates. I believed that would not only elevate the Presidential race, but take two articulate, serious people and give them a huge boost. As it is, the Republican "debates" will be mostly watched by people who can't find anything on Comedy Central those evenings and the Democratic "debates" will be watched by no one.
Now comes Bernie Sanders into the mix, somewhat surprisingly (to me, at least) developing support not just as an excellent promoter of ideas and policies, but as an actual candidate. Why not a series of three-way debates, with him, Webb, and Huntsman? I would bet that the American people would be very interested in real debates, not scripted, bumper sticker platitudes, replete with ad hominem attacks and pretend Boy Scout/Girl Scout virtues, which will be the official "debates."
Most candidates listen to all the noise, much of which they create themselves, having no faith in the American people. I have such faith, and I believe genuine debates of substance by Sanders, Webb, and Huntsman would show that.
Now comes Bernie Sanders into the mix, somewhat surprisingly (to me, at least) developing support not just as an excellent promoter of ideas and policies, but as an actual candidate. Why not a series of three-way debates, with him, Webb, and Huntsman? I would bet that the American people would be very interested in real debates, not scripted, bumper sticker platitudes, replete with ad hominem attacks and pretend Boy Scout/Girl Scout virtues, which will be the official "debates."
Most candidates listen to all the noise, much of which they create themselves, having no faith in the American people. I have such faith, and I believe genuine debates of substance by Sanders, Webb, and Huntsman would show that.
17
I agree with everyone else expressing their relief and gratitude that you've finally published a Bernie Sanders article that doesn't just say ''he can't win'' or ''he's a radical''.
Bernie can win, and Americans will be lucky--or more accurately, will have accomplished something great--if he does.
Bernie can win, and Americans will be lucky--or more accurately, will have accomplished something great--if he does.
56
When is Bernie coming to New York City? I want to holler my 100% support for him at the top of my lungs. Sent his campaign two donations already. He has my vote. BERNIE FOR PRES 2016
42
The thing I love most about Sanders' campaign is that it is not about him. It's about the American people and what they can accomplish if they take back their democracy.
77
If one doesn't get a sense of honesty when listening to Bernie Sanders speak, then I don't know what will.
Sanders 2016!
Sanders 2016!
55
Wow, the New York Times woke up and did a non-snarky lovely article on Bernie Sanders. So that is one Bernie article versus about 10 article on Trump.
The Republicans won't like this article about Bernie and will claim NYT liberal bias, but that is because the article is true (Republicans really don't like truth and will complain very loudly when truth is told) and tells us about an honest politician running for President (the Republicans don't have any of those types in their party).
So thank you Jason Horowitz for doing a fine job.
The Republicans won't like this article about Bernie and will claim NYT liberal bias, but that is because the article is true (Republicans really don't like truth and will complain very loudly when truth is told) and tells us about an honest politician running for President (the Republicans don't have any of those types in their party).
So thank you Jason Horowitz for doing a fine job.
70
PB, I agree wholeheartedly with your post.
One other thing, I can't understand why they (the media, NYT, and the electronic outlets) don't challenge the pundits when they refer to the "liberal press?" Are they afraid of not getting an interview if they do? If they can't challenge them as to why they think the press has a liberal leaning, they have no business calling themselves journalists. Far too often I notice the evening news (a contradiction in terms, really it's just infotainment) gives one side of an issue without having a corresponding viewpoint. Do they realize they are unfairly influencing the populace? Truth (I know hard to believe) should be their only goal!
One other thing, I can't understand why they (the media, NYT, and the electronic outlets) don't challenge the pundits when they refer to the "liberal press?" Are they afraid of not getting an interview if they do? If they can't challenge them as to why they think the press has a liberal leaning, they have no business calling themselves journalists. Far too often I notice the evening news (a contradiction in terms, really it's just infotainment) gives one side of an issue without having a corresponding viewpoint. Do they realize they are unfairly influencing the populace? Truth (I know hard to believe) should be their only goal!
4
He's honest , behaves according to deeply held values - doesn't change his behavior or his message to suit each audience -- and has fought for the little guy. It hardly seems possible that he could be a candidate. If he was given as much free publicity as that other Brooklyn character -- people would get to know him...
50
Bernie Sanders - like many Americans and current politicians - comes from humble roots.
What makes him exceptional is that in spite of his success as a politician, he has not abandoned the poor and middle class like the majority of American politicians.
Conversely, he champions the causes of the poor and the middle class and shouts for economic justice and some restored humanity in our wretched, corrupted political system.
Contrast that with a fellow Republican like John Boehner who swept his father's bar floor as a boy and them moved on to defend the 0.1% as an adult...or contrast that even with Democrat Chuck Schumer from Bernie's modest Brooklyn neighborhood who butters his 'Democratic' votes with Wall St. marmalade.......and you'll see that Bernie Sanders is an exceptional human being, an exceptional politician and would make an exceptional President of the United States.
Go Bernie !
What makes him exceptional is that in spite of his success as a politician, he has not abandoned the poor and middle class like the majority of American politicians.
Conversely, he champions the causes of the poor and the middle class and shouts for economic justice and some restored humanity in our wretched, corrupted political system.
Contrast that with a fellow Republican like John Boehner who swept his father's bar floor as a boy and them moved on to defend the 0.1% as an adult...or contrast that even with Democrat Chuck Schumer from Bernie's modest Brooklyn neighborhood who butters his 'Democratic' votes with Wall St. marmalade.......and you'll see that Bernie Sanders is an exceptional human being, an exceptional politician and would make an exceptional President of the United States.
Go Bernie !
422
Hey, Socrates, I always enjoy your posts and am thrilled that you, too, are for Bernie! Everything I know about the guy cheers me up that someone this pure in heart can begin to get the following he deserves. Could it be that he actually could win? i'm sending him $ every month, and crossing my fingers.
5
YES! Bernie Sanders can be our next President of the USA…it can happen! Say YES! for President Bernie Sanders!
1
This was a fair article illustrating Bernie Sander's roots in Brooklyn.
The larger media still has a way to go: it would have us believe that Bernie is a radical outlier, while someone like Jeb! is a sensible choice.
These is also some hesitancy from establishmentarians that Bernie is not sufficiently corrupt and cynical to be considered a 'realistic' choice. But he has survived the tumult of being an elected politician for more than 40 years - the guy certainly knows up from down and his way around.
A memo to Democratic strategists: you won't win with cross-over Republican votes - they do not exist - you win by getting out your base with high motivation. Forget those 'opinion polls' about what Republicans think about either Bernie or Hillary, they don't matter - only getting out the base matters, and think carefully about who inspires that base.
The larger media still has a way to go: it would have us believe that Bernie is a radical outlier, while someone like Jeb! is a sensible choice.
These is also some hesitancy from establishmentarians that Bernie is not sufficiently corrupt and cynical to be considered a 'realistic' choice. But he has survived the tumult of being an elected politician for more than 40 years - the guy certainly knows up from down and his way around.
A memo to Democratic strategists: you won't win with cross-over Republican votes - they do not exist - you win by getting out your base with high motivation. Forget those 'opinion polls' about what Republicans think about either Bernie or Hillary, they don't matter - only getting out the base matters, and think carefully about who inspires that base.
289
On the other hand, Bernie can win cross-over Republican votes.
15
Amazing to compare what Bernie is saying with what FDR, Truman, and even Eisenhower said, in fact what even Teddy Roosevelt stood for, then look at what the supposedly 'mainstream' candidates like Jeb are saying. With that in mind, the fact that Bernie is considered to be 'far left' and an outlier is beyond comprehension.
4
Thank you Mr. Baker, this eloquent and succinct piece of advice says it all and is the MOST IMPORTANT advice the Democratic strategists need to listen to and act upon.
3
It's great to read about another example of how the society progressives and New Deal politicians built in the early to mid 20th century was able to give the children of blue collar immigrant families so many amazing opportunities, and it's even more encouraging to read about somebody who benefited from those opportunities and wants to see that future generations can have something similar. Too often, we've seen working families strive to give their children advantages they've never dreamed of, only to have said children grow-up entitled, imagining that the struggles were entirely their own, that they alone responsible for their own success, and unwilling to extend the same help to the next generation, very quick blame the struggles of others on laziness.
113
He has my vote. His career and actions speak for themselves. He's always worked for the betterment of all of us.
Bernie for President 2016!
Bernie for President 2016!
120
An excellent piece on the finest candidate in years ! Let's see more articles on the front page of the NYT about him as Bernie Sanders is a genuine "mensch" if ever there was one. Go Bernie !
89
Growing up in Jewish Brooklyn in the 50's and 60's, I share Mr. Sanders's left wing politics. Debs was my grandfather's hero and Norman Thomas was my father's. If Sanders wins the nomination, he will bring to the race a truly social democrat background that will create a real choice for America.
He talks straight and will be a truly transformative president.
Even if he doesn't win the nomination, he has brought the Democratic party back to its progressive roots that have been lacking as of late.
He talks straight and will be a truly transformative president.
Even if he doesn't win the nomination, he has brought the Democratic party back to its progressive roots that have been lacking as of late.
62
Hopefully, another underdog will beat the Clinton machine and, finally, face down big money. A Vermont Brooklyn Jew as President of the United States is even more innovative then Obama's heritage. At least we'd be spared the birther issue.
66
Sanders is a self-described and devout socialist, through and through. It will be interesting to watch Hillary Clinton as she tries to appeal to Sanders' left wing following, while also attempting to reflect middle American values and morals. These two reveal who actually controls the Democrat party. it's a collective of special interest groups, all of whom want the government to control every aspect of our lives.
2
Paul: I would like to understand the nature of the conflict you see between socialist/left wing following and "middle American values and morals". What are those values and morals?
3
Actually, when government is weakened it means that those who have economic power control the political life of the country. What social democracies are about is representing the vast majority of the people.
A majority of Americans support Sanders’ positions. The public supports raising taxes on the wealthy, their effective tax rates are the lowest in decades. They are opposed to the disastrous Citizens United decision and support moving to public funding of elections. They believe that college has become unaffordable for many young people. They believe that climate change is occurring and that it is caused by human activity.
Despite What Corporate Media Tells You, Bernie Sanders’ Positions Are Mainstream
http://billmoyers.com/2015/06/01/mainstream-bernie-sanders/
A majority of Americans support Sanders’ positions. The public supports raising taxes on the wealthy, their effective tax rates are the lowest in decades. They are opposed to the disastrous Citizens United decision and support moving to public funding of elections. They believe that college has become unaffordable for many young people. They believe that climate change is occurring and that it is caused by human activity.
Despite What Corporate Media Tells You, Bernie Sanders’ Positions Are Mainstream
http://billmoyers.com/2015/06/01/mainstream-bernie-sanders/
6
Brooklynites have spread throughout this country and can relate to Bernie. With his fight and our support; who knows what greatness lurks. Speaking of fight, Hillary not showing much.
21
Yes, omigod, Mr Sanders and I were born in Brooklyn one year apart!
I feel starstruck. Nobody need ask me who gets my impassioned vote..
I feel starstruck. Nobody need ask me who gets my impassioned vote..
7
How do you equate leftist views and an alliance to the Socialist Party with Brooklyn?
1
How do you equate right-wing economic views and an alliance to chrony capitalism with America?
23
First. he is neither Left nor a European style socialist. He is is pretty much left of center on a Global political scale. He represents the common people and not Dunkin Donuts $10 million/ year salary + stock option CEO's that support slave labor wages!
51
I will happily accept Bernie Sanders and his "leftist views and an alliance to the Socialist Party" over any of the 5,648 republicans running for president any day of the week.
This just in - now there are 6,212 republicans running.
This just in - now there are 6,212 republicans running.
15
Couldnt be more stoked the Dems are running an honest candidate.
139
Hmmmm ... "Bill" in New York. Which Bill in New York, exactly?
"Couldn't be more stoked the Dems are running an honest candidate."
"Couldn't be more stoked the Dems are running an honest candidate."
I cringe at some of the pessimism in a few comments --- balanced out by some great optimism, and although I say, "kudos to the Times for finally publishing a positive spin on Sanders," we need more of it. By highlighting Trump and back-paging Bernie, the Times is --- wittingly or unwittingly --- proffering a crazed Republican over an honest work-ethic liberal, whose only fault is the knee-jerk repulsion that the word "socialist' evokes in many Americans --- simply because they don't know any better. In terms of women's rights, whom do you think Eleanor Roosevelt would be supporting --- Bernie or Hillary? I know what this Brooklyn-raised reader would opine.
For the first time since FDR, we have an opportunity to move the country away from the corporate plutocracy predicted by Ike and actualized by every president that succeeded him --- yeah JFK and LBJ included, because on this issue, they sort of ignored what was transpiring. Then, with the run of Repubs from Nixon to Reagan, and the DINO Dems like Bill, this oligarchic structure of American society became a completely locked-in reality. This is likely our last chance to open a window to let in some fresh air. I hope to see it before I leave the planet.
So, from Brooklyn-Manhattan-Boston-New Hampshire-and-New Mexico, I holler, "GO BERNIE"!!!
For the first time since FDR, we have an opportunity to move the country away from the corporate plutocracy predicted by Ike and actualized by every president that succeeded him --- yeah JFK and LBJ included, because on this issue, they sort of ignored what was transpiring. Then, with the run of Repubs from Nixon to Reagan, and the DINO Dems like Bill, this oligarchic structure of American society became a completely locked-in reality. This is likely our last chance to open a window to let in some fresh air. I hope to see it before I leave the planet.
So, from Brooklyn-Manhattan-Boston-New Hampshire-and-New Mexico, I holler, "GO BERNIE"!!!
203
Me too, from Boston, Vermont, Ohio, Indiana, Virginia, Arkansas, Florida, Colorado, and Maryland! Yep, that's how many places where I've lived! And, don't think it hasn't been a challenge to be a vocal progressive in a lot of those spots. Go Bernie!
44
These comments give me the tiniest sliver of hope! Could it possibly be the miracle of miracles? Could Bernie be discovered?
5
The Washington Post did a big story this week, complete with documentations, about Mr Sanders and the NRA. He took their money to get elected and voted against back ground checks.
Of course he did but the "true believers" don't want to deal with the fact he is just like all the rest, a forever political do nothing, devoted to reelection.
1
Yes, but Sanders has voted against the legalization of assault weapons and for extending waiting periods before a gun can be purchased. For a senator from a rural state with substantial gun ownership he has taken a reasonable and centrist set of positions. Sanders is not in the NRA's pocket, although he was certainly the beneficiary of NRA support when elected to Congress. As this suggests, Sanders is a realist but is owned by no one.
1
Despite his Brooklyn identity, or perhaps because of it, what Bernie Sanders would need to do to win would be to change his name to Bush and seriously entertain some notion of moderation. He wouldn't need to become the supreme "triangulator" that his most formidable opponent and VERY likely vanquisher is, but he'd need to recognize that Americans who AREN'T pretty extreme socialists aren't evil and may even have a case.
But that's really not Bernie, is it? So, we'll be entertained for a time, and perhaps look forward in the not-too-distant-future to a quaint retrospective on the early years of ANOTHER Democratic candidate who grew up in Park Ridge, Illinois, a picturesque suburb located 15 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and spent the rest of her life assiduously endeavoring to rid herself of her Chicago twang -- with very mixed results except when excusing her husband for infidelity in a pretty passable Arkansas drawl.
Giveth me a break. Vermont should be shuddering.
But that's really not Bernie, is it? So, we'll be entertained for a time, and perhaps look forward in the not-too-distant-future to a quaint retrospective on the early years of ANOTHER Democratic candidate who grew up in Park Ridge, Illinois, a picturesque suburb located 15 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and spent the rest of her life assiduously endeavoring to rid herself of her Chicago twang -- with very mixed results except when excusing her husband for infidelity in a pretty passable Arkansas drawl.
Giveth me a break. Vermont should be shuddering.
1
"Americans who AREN'T pretty extreme socialists aren't evil and may even have a case".
Bernie Sanders isn't an extreme anything so you can untwist your knickers. Those on the right have expressed their philosophy and it has been found wanting in the extreme so their "case" is to sit quietly with their hands folded. So we can keep our eyes on 'em.
Bernie Sanders isn't an extreme anything so you can untwist your knickers. Those on the right have expressed their philosophy and it has been found wanting in the extreme so their "case" is to sit quietly with their hands folded. So we can keep our eyes on 'em.
11
Chuck:
By the lights of most people, Bernie Sanders certainly is an extreme SOMETHING, your inability to appreciate that notwithstanding. As far as the right having expressed their philosophy that has been found wanting is concerned, that IS entertaining – what? Found wanting by VOTERS? I suppose that’s why we have an undivided Republican Congress and a majority of Republican statehouses and governors’ mansions. We also have AT LEAST an even shot of electing a Republican president next year.
It’s a philosophy that you might take efforts to understand better, as it may very well be governing YOU in the form of undivided Republican GOVERNMENT soon enough.
By the lights of most people, Bernie Sanders certainly is an extreme SOMETHING, your inability to appreciate that notwithstanding. As far as the right having expressed their philosophy that has been found wanting is concerned, that IS entertaining – what? Found wanting by VOTERS? I suppose that’s why we have an undivided Republican Congress and a majority of Republican statehouses and governors’ mansions. We also have AT LEAST an even shot of electing a Republican president next year.
It’s a philosophy that you might take efforts to understand better, as it may very well be governing YOU in the form of undivided Republican GOVERNMENT soon enough.
1
Well, I'm certainly a fan of Bernie, knowing well his accent, admiring him and recognizing him as in so many ways a kindred spirit to this slightly younger Bronx expatriate. He is a voice for New York City values of what is, unhappily, a time gone by; perhaps he can help bring them back. And I'm glad to see that Madison is still a fine place, having graduated half as many Brookly Nobel Laureates as the Bronx HS of Science has so far produced from the Bronx. Not meaning to crow, given the sadness of the thing, but this week another Bronx Science graduate, E.L. Doctorow, moved on, leaving one less devoted New York voice to be heard in the world at large.
6
Enough with the Bronx. He's a Brooklyn guy!
Just read a terrific new book set in Brooklyn, F TRAIN, throughout one can hear a wise, honest voice & accent exactly like Bernie's. Don't stop, Bernie, you go.
29
This old Bronx boy from the same era feels optimistic that Bernie may not win over the middle America crowd easily. Don't focus on his Brooklyn accent but on his message. Her is the real Mr Smith Goes to Washington
26
Twenty or thirty years ago, Sanders may have been considered a viable candidate. In today's world, the nation needs real leadership and an ability to outwit those who seek to destroy the nation. Sadly for Sanders and Clinton, age has taken its toll and these candidates should not be considered for the highest office. The nation needs bright, intelligent candidates who don't only have the capability to quickly react but to also be proactive.
4
So your voting for Martin O'Malley then? Perfectly acceptable third option.
W and even Obama are younger types who react too darn quickly to some dNgerous moments. Speedy decision making is not all it is cracked up to be. Even Hillary jumps too fast onto what she perceives as the right bandwagon, to her subsequent regret, I imagine.
We could do a lot worse than Bernie. Any of the 16 R candidates, for example, strike fear into my heart at the thought of them being at the top of our government, let alone with control of both houses of Congress as well as the Supreme Court. Next year's election is not one to joke about. Nor is it one to ignore or sit out, like purists often do. Which is why we lost the Congress, in part.
Waiting for perfection at the top of the heap is nonsense. Deals are made from day one. They just are not all dangerous to the country or the democracy, one can only hope!
We could do a lot worse than Bernie. Any of the 16 R candidates, for example, strike fear into my heart at the thought of them being at the top of our government, let alone with control of both houses of Congress as well as the Supreme Court. Next year's election is not one to joke about. Nor is it one to ignore or sit out, like purists often do. Which is why we lost the Congress, in part.
Waiting for perfection at the top of the heap is nonsense. Deals are made from day one. They just are not all dangerous to the country or the democracy, one can only hope!
2
Ok - so name one GOP candidate - ONE - who would possibly fit your description? We don't need "bold" or "bluster" or "tough." The world has seen enough of this. I nominate Obama for a third term.
3
As someone who lives in Vermont and has voted for Bernie in the past, met him, etc., I'd like to see some analysis of his sell-out to Lockheed-Martin on the F-35 fighter jet. Here we have the poster child of Pentagon waste and fraud, the budget-busting, never-ready-to-fly F-35 fighter jet and Bernie Sanders is making sure it is based in Vermont! Not only that, he is doing so at the expense of 1,000's of his constituents whose home values are plummeting because of the expanded "not suitable for residential use" zone. Immigrant refugees, the elderly, low-income and working class, veterans, etc are all impacted disproportionately. Bryan Bender reported this for the Boston Globe and unfortunately Sanders & Leahy used dirty back-room politics & no different than anyone else in DC. Take it from a Vermonter who has learned the hard way - Bernie Sanders talks a great game but walks the military-industrial-complex walk when it matters.
2
Poor Bernie - damned if he does, and damned if he doesn't.
1
I am also against basing the F-35 in Vermont (or anywhere), as it is just one big unnecessary boondoggle and its basing in Burlington hurts local residents. But, to be clear, Bernie Sanders voted against the funds to develop the F-35 in the first place. Also, the Boston Globe article you mention specifies Senator Leahy as utilizing his influence to secure Burlington as the site for the basing of the F-35. It does not mention Senator Sanders.
I agree we would have wanted all our representatives to energetically oppose the basing of the F-35 in Burlington, and that did not happen. However, it is also inaccurate to claim that Sanders used influence to get the F-35 in Burlington, as that is not what the article you cite reported at all.
I agree we would have wanted all our representatives to energetically oppose the basing of the F-35 in Burlington, and that did not happen. However, it is also inaccurate to claim that Sanders used influence to get the F-35 in Burlington, as that is not what the article you cite reported at all.
2
Good point, but I would like to hear what Bernie has to say.
5
I like Bernie and will vote for him without hesitation. That said, it will take more than honesty to be an effective president. It takes making good appointments, building coalitions, making tough decisions and compromises. It often takes wiliness and cunning. FDR, who was one of the most effective presidents, was known to say, "I never let my left hand know what my right hand is doing." Lincoln, another supremely effective president, had to play cabinet members off each other. If Bernie is elected, he'll be stepping into the imperial presidency of the American empire. He will have to deal with foreign policy challenges like China, Russia, Israel, and ISIS. There is no question that Bernie knows this. I do wonder, however, if his most ardent supporters know this and know what Bernie will truly have to deal with.
10
Yes, an effective presidency requires excellent executive and coalition-building skills. This challenge applies to all candidates, not just Sanders.
Thanks for the nice piece on Mr. Sanders. I just sent him another 50 bucks after reading it. I hope and pray he can catch fire with the imagination of all people who are fed up with the political duopoly we are stuck with.
122
Please Bernie, run as an independent give America a real choice! You have no chance against Clinton for the Democratic nomination.
5
Unfortunately that will only split the vote and give the presidency to the GOOPs. And, we certainly don't want that, no matter how much we want to see Bernie win the election. Hillary would still be better than any unfortunate Republican. But, let's not go there, yet. Just build on what we've got.
15
Repeatedly falling in line and voting for the lesser of two corporate evils is what has gotten us to this sorry state of a failed democracy. I am voting for Bernie.
8
ejzim, your pessimism it is quite unfortunate. Go BERNIE !
10
No wonder Senator Sanders resonates so strongly nationally. From as urban a home as New York City to as rural a niche as Vermont, Bernie Sanders has an unusual level of perception about peoples' needs. We would all do well to listen to him and offer our own stories as he campaigns nationally.
128
Oh puhleeze. Don't pin all this human experience on someone you never met. This us a guy whose politics and attitude were already well set by the time he came to Vermont. His popularity here is as much due to the influx of other urban refugees, who like himself, moved to Vermont with hopes of cheaper living.
The culture has changed so drastically, that the best and most direct candidate, one using real facts and figures, doesn't appear to have a chance; but more the country loses the ties between socialism and conservatism that exist in Europe and use to prominent here, until the Red Scare.
Bernie Sanders creates liberty by reducing its risks. His way solves the old clashes and lays down the tired cliches that lack courage. But the corporate sauce is too thick; look at how they are gouging on Trump!
Bernie Sanders creates liberty by reducing its risks. His way solves the old clashes and lays down the tired cliches that lack courage. But the corporate sauce is too thick; look at how they are gouging on Trump!
26
The corporate sauce is too thick, great line.
12
This is not the part of Brooklyn you'll ever see in The Times Style section or anywhere else people write about "Brooklyn" today. But it was and still is a great place to grow up into a smart socialist. All my grandparents and great-grandparents were socialists, including the ones that were millionaire businessmen. Eugene V. Debs was their idol, and I know Bernie Sanders has spoken about Debs, who ran for President, too.
79
Wow, finally! From the Times, a respectful, non-snarky article about Bernie Sanders!
358
The man doesn't deserve respect. His running for mayor of Burlington on a Socialist Party line lost him that.
1
Capitalism is dying and taking the country with it. I am voting for Bernie Sanders.
29
Capitalism is suffering at the hands of people like Sanders and Obama, who make great declarations about business when they've NEVER had to run one at a profit.
I have never felt so favorably about a mainstream politician (in recent years) as I do about Bernie Sanders.
While some of his policies may lean a tad too far to the left for many, his candidacy, his persona, and most importantly, his actions, seem to hold a unique combination of honesty and righteousness that simply no longer exists among the usual Democrat and Republican suspects.
I strongly believe that financial and business interests generally have a complete stranglehold on the two main candidates provided to us. I also believe this is the most important issue facing America today. Because of this, I tend to vote third party. I did not vote for Obama. I would not vote for Hillary. Bernie Sanders is one of the very few exceptions.
He is a well-known Democrat -- not some third party moonshot -- who has proven, without a doubt, to be for the people, not corporations. All you need to know is he does not have a Super PAC. That is a huge signal.
Long story short, Bernie has strayed from the status quo in the right direction and he actually has a chance to win. That's an extraordinarily important mix.
If you voted for Obama because you wanted change, or you believe our politicians no longer have the peoples' best interests at heart, you should be voting for Bernie. A vote for him is a vote for pulling the reigns of this country back into the hands of its citizens.
It goes without saying that he has mine.
While some of his policies may lean a tad too far to the left for many, his candidacy, his persona, and most importantly, his actions, seem to hold a unique combination of honesty and righteousness that simply no longer exists among the usual Democrat and Republican suspects.
I strongly believe that financial and business interests generally have a complete stranglehold on the two main candidates provided to us. I also believe this is the most important issue facing America today. Because of this, I tend to vote third party. I did not vote for Obama. I would not vote for Hillary. Bernie Sanders is one of the very few exceptions.
He is a well-known Democrat -- not some third party moonshot -- who has proven, without a doubt, to be for the people, not corporations. All you need to know is he does not have a Super PAC. That is a huge signal.
Long story short, Bernie has strayed from the status quo in the right direction and he actually has a chance to win. That's an extraordinarily important mix.
If you voted for Obama because you wanted change, or you believe our politicians no longer have the peoples' best interests at heart, you should be voting for Bernie. A vote for him is a vote for pulling the reigns of this country back into the hands of its citizens.
It goes without saying that he has mine.
470
SOME of his policies a TAD too far LEFT for some? How about his whole being, from the early writings through his socialist mayoral administration to his attacks on Wall Street? If it weren't for the voice given him by the liberal media, he'd be just another long-forgotten OWS clown!
1
Sadly, for too many people, we are trained to buy the sizzle instead of steak.
Bright and Shiney sells in America. Slick does the trick in American politics.
But, Mr. Sanders resonates with so many, like myself. Is it still possible to wake up this nation to the blatant corruption, chrony capitalism, and wealth redistribution towards the top?
I hope so.
Bright and Shiney sells in America. Slick does the trick in American politics.
But, Mr. Sanders resonates with so many, like myself. Is it still possible to wake up this nation to the blatant corruption, chrony capitalism, and wealth redistribution towards the top?
I hope so.
15
Bernie Sanders’ positions may seem far left, but the truth is that a majority of Americans support Sanders’ positions. The public supports raising taxes on the wealthy, their effective tax rates are the lowest in decades. They are opposed to the disastrous Citizens United decision and support moving to public funding of elections. They believe that college has become unaffordable for many young people. They believe that climate change is occurring and that it is caused by human activity.
Despite What Corporate Media Tells You, Bernie Sanders’ Positions Are Mainstream
http://billmoyers.com/2015/06/01/mainstream-bernie-sanders/
"Sanders’s positions are quite mainstream from the point of view of the stances of the American public in general. Of course, the 1%, for whom and by whom most mainstream media report, are appalled and would like to depict him as an outlier.
"On [Citizens United and public funding of elections], Bernie Sanders is the most mainstream of all the candidates. The others are in a part of the political spectrum that by the polling represents a tiny lunatic fringe, in opposing significant campaign finance reform.
"[The Republican field of] climate change denialists are kooks, and if we had an honest media, it would call them kooks. Instead, Bernie Sanders, whose positions are shared by strong majorities of Americans, is being depicted as the one who is out of step."
Despite What Corporate Media Tells You, Bernie Sanders’ Positions Are Mainstream
http://billmoyers.com/2015/06/01/mainstream-bernie-sanders/
"Sanders’s positions are quite mainstream from the point of view of the stances of the American public in general. Of course, the 1%, for whom and by whom most mainstream media report, are appalled and would like to depict him as an outlier.
"On [Citizens United and public funding of elections], Bernie Sanders is the most mainstream of all the candidates. The others are in a part of the political spectrum that by the polling represents a tiny lunatic fringe, in opposing significant campaign finance reform.
"[The Republican field of] climate change denialists are kooks, and if we had an honest media, it would call them kooks. Instead, Bernie Sanders, whose positions are shared by strong majorities of Americans, is being depicted as the one who is out of step."
23
Go Bernie Go! But it's time to think deeply and meaningfully on race related issues and speak the language of minority groups in the democratic coalition. Yes, economic issues are a huge impact in minority communities. But I hope to see him speak in a culturally meaningful way. The Blacks Lives Matter movement is self-evident to me (and I am not black). They are screaming in anguish at their secondary class over decades and centuries, and the harrowing way in which they have to live their lives in their own country.
This cannot be met with a cold, dry economic response about jobs. He needs to show empathy and true understanding of how hurtful it is that this rallying cry is required in this modern day in our country and how it means that Democrats have not fully earned their votes of late.
I think he can win the minority community but he needs to sharpen his message to be one that goes beyond the obvious aspects of inequality to systematic de facto racism built structurally into the American system. And he needs to talk about how he will set about to dismantle it to the extent he can exert such influence.
This cannot be met with a cold, dry economic response about jobs. He needs to show empathy and true understanding of how hurtful it is that this rallying cry is required in this modern day in our country and how it means that Democrats have not fully earned their votes of late.
I think he can win the minority community but he needs to sharpen his message to be one that goes beyond the obvious aspects of inequality to systematic de facto racism built structurally into the American system. And he needs to talk about how he will set about to dismantle it to the extent he can exert such influence.
113
It's an incomplete article, but I guess we should be grateful that is not the imperious dismissiveness that has accompanied every other Times article regarding Sanders. But once he got to Chicago, he joined the Student Non Violent Coordinating Committee and marched with Dr. King to Washington in 1963 (while Hillary Clinton was a young Republican for Goldwater, by the way).
He is more genuine and consistent than the other 20 candidates combined.
He is more genuine and consistent than the other 20 candidates combined.
46
Though black might appreciate your concern, some might resent your suggestion that they, collectively, do not respond to "cold, dry economic responses about jobs." They are not a monolith, but I think that it's fair to say that they are not opposed to jobs or economic justice. Certainly the two gentlemen in the video seem to be on board, and enthusiastically so.
4
Great comment. I am white, but I am a member of ColorofChange and other civil-rights organizations, and know where you're coming from. Bernie is much more about the economic issues than the identity-politics ones, but nobody in the race is more fair and sympathetic to the issues of racism and classicism so bedeviling the country.
Watch Bernie. In the next few weeks you will see some strong action on exactly this point, and you will not be disappointed.
BERNIE IN '16
Watch Bernie. In the next few weeks you will see some strong action on exactly this point, and you will not be disappointed.
BERNIE IN '16
1
As a native Brooklynite, Bernie Sanders has my vote. But more importantly, from his stance on the issues, he also has my vote.
131
He reminds me of a straight-talking president we had when WWII was coming to an end.
Give 'em hell, Bernie!
Give 'em hell, Bernie!
163
I've been a fan of Bernie for years!!
Give "em hell, Bernie!---one of the slogans that should grace his ticket,
which would include either Liz Warren, Grayson, Feingold, Kucinich or Dean...
talk about a dream team.
Give "em hell, Bernie!---one of the slogans that should grace his ticket,
which would include either Liz Warren, Grayson, Feingold, Kucinich or Dean...
talk about a dream team.
9
I certainly like Bernie Sanders, but looking at where he spends his money, I don't think he is in this for the long run. He spends too little on building his team, and I am talking percentages not actual cash, so it is relative & relevant.
Sadly I have seen this act too many times before, Bernie will help the dems bring the progressives along, until at some point, he will gracefully bow out and throw his support behind Clinton. This is all a song and dance, and it is truly astounding how Americans buy into it every time. Do you really think Bernie who has been part of the Senate/Congress for decades, would get in the way of the dems anointed choice, please...
Sadly I have seen this act too many times before, Bernie will help the dems bring the progressives along, until at some point, he will gracefully bow out and throw his support behind Clinton. This is all a song and dance, and it is truly astounding how Americans buy into it every time. Do you really think Bernie who has been part of the Senate/Congress for decades, would get in the way of the dems anointed choice, please...
7
Well, let's hope his candidacy doesn't end with a report of adultery as did our last left-wingish candidate, Edwards; I truly like and respect Bernie Sanders, but I agree that he does not appear to be in this for the long haul.
I am delighted to see so many people showing their desire for a more leftist President, but to win the Presidency a president must already have been working with members of the minorities -- blacks, Hispanics, etc -- visiting their communities, letting them get to know who he is on a very personal level. It is too late to start now.
We all dream of a candidate who is perfectly unblemished by the political process, but it is difficult to find such a candidate. As the candidate goes out and builds experience, he or she is more and more likely to be tarred by the Republican hate machine which will use anything they can find, true or not, to tar the likely candidate. Bernie Sanders and Barack Obama have largely avoided that because no one really expected them to run.
. So when Hillary wins the nomination, I hope Democrats will remember that she, too, is a good person, who just happened to be the target of the Republican hate machine. Let's not have another election like Kerry vs. Bush election where the Democrats didn't really fully support their own.
I hope that the Democrats will remember the contrast between the Republican candidate and the Democratic candidate, not the difference between Hillary and Bernie.
I am delighted to see so many people showing their desire for a more leftist President, but to win the Presidency a president must already have been working with members of the minorities -- blacks, Hispanics, etc -- visiting their communities, letting them get to know who he is on a very personal level. It is too late to start now.
We all dream of a candidate who is perfectly unblemished by the political process, but it is difficult to find such a candidate. As the candidate goes out and builds experience, he or she is more and more likely to be tarred by the Republican hate machine which will use anything they can find, true or not, to tar the likely candidate. Bernie Sanders and Barack Obama have largely avoided that because no one really expected them to run.
. So when Hillary wins the nomination, I hope Democrats will remember that she, too, is a good person, who just happened to be the target of the Republican hate machine. Let's not have another election like Kerry vs. Bush election where the Democrats didn't really fully support their own.
I hope that the Democrats will remember the contrast between the Republican candidate and the Democratic candidate, not the difference between Hillary and Bernie.
2
Do you really think he is going to all this trouble just to give the race to Hillary? Please.
12
Actually, I think he's paving the way for Elizabeth Warren!
6
The refreshing honesty of Bernie Sanders vs the inherent dishonesty and chameleon-like qualities of the former Goldwater Girl. No brainer. Go Bernie.
127
Bernie Sanders will be a footnote in history books about the making of the President 2016. He may win Iowa and New Hampshire but he will not fare well in South Carolina, N.Y. California, Florida and other major states. If, despite my prediction he gains the nomination that will ensure a Jeb Bush presidency. Even Donald Trump could lick him.
Everyone is impressed with crowds. I get that. I remember being at Madison Square Garden for a George McGovern rally. It was huge, the atmosphere was electric and he was swamped by Richard Nixon in 1972.
Everyone is impressed with crowds. I get that. I remember being at Madison Square Garden for a George McGovern rally. It was huge, the atmosphere was electric and he was swamped by Richard Nixon in 1972.
2
Bernie Sanders is drawing crowds in red places like Arizona and Texas. Of course that isn't common knowledge since there is a near-total mainstream media blackout regarding his campaign. Anyone relying on corporate media to get the real story on Bernie Sanders is restricting themselves to misinformation and outright lies.
45
Hopefully, he'll knock enough wind out of Hillary's campaign to allow Rubio to sweep the vote.
Check his support among veterans, and reconsider your dismissive attitude, copped right from the Times' political coverage. He's done more for veterans than any other member of Congre$$.
39
The article's details make one thing clear: Bernie Sanders is an ordinary man who rose above everything to become a presidential candidate. These days, it is hard to relate to politicians, with Harvard and NYU grads taking their seats. But Mr Sanders had problems at home that many people can relate to. Although he wanted to go to Harvard, he started off his college career in one of NY's many city institutions, Brooklyn College. Although he is running as an Independent Candidate, he is the easiest to relate to. And I would rather vote for someone I can relate to rather than candidates such as Mrs Clinton (who has changed her tone a bit from past years) and the whole host of Republicans who are running.
86
This may be a minor point but Bernie was elected senator as an Independent.
He is running as a Democrat in his Presidential Campaign. I must say among all the candidates running for president, Bernie is unique. Bernie Sanders is an honest human being. A genuinely good person with an abundance of integrity.
I find him to be refreshing. In the political arena however, his great qualities could be an impediment. And that I find appalling. I am behind Bernie, he is in touch with much of the electorate. GO BERNIE!
He is running as a Democrat in his Presidential Campaign. I must say among all the candidates running for president, Bernie is unique. Bernie Sanders is an honest human being. A genuinely good person with an abundance of integrity.
I find him to be refreshing. In the political arena however, his great qualities could be an impediment. And that I find appalling. I am behind Bernie, he is in touch with much of the electorate. GO BERNIE!
37
Bernie Sanders is running as a Democrat, not a third-party candidate. Very important difference!
6
Regarding his Harvard aspirations, am I the only one who was reminded of George Bailey in It's A Wonderful Life?
2
I'm lucky enough to live in Bernie's neighborhood in Burlington. As a result, I see him on a regular basis doing his own grocery shopping and stepping up to the register to pay his own bill. He knows the high cost of living and wage stagnation because he takes his milk, eggs, meat, and vegetables to the register alongside the rest of us. Always has.
319
This brings a smile to my face, because when I lived in Burlington years ago, I would see the exact same thing. Bernie wouldn't just be grabbing items off the shelf either - he'd be checking the prices!
7
I can't wait until the country sees video of Bernie shopping. That says it all. Bernie's no act. He really is one of us. What a contrast to the rest of the pampered, elitist field. Last week I read with astonishment that Bernie books his own flights (another great article, BTW):
https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2015/07/18/summer-sanders-fall-s...
"Sanders’ plane landed in Minneapolis with about 30 minutes to get his connecting flight. One passenger positioned himself near the end of the jet bridge to get a photo of him getting off the plane. He paused for selfies with several others as they all waited for luggage checked at the gate.
Unlike Clinton’s container-ship-sized campaign organization with more than 300 on staff, Sanders has a much smaller operation. On Saturday he traveled with only his campaign manager, his communications director, a videographer, and his wife. He figured out most of the logistics himself — securing boarding passes for the group and leading everyone through the Minneapolis airport from one terminal to the other."
https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2015/07/18/summer-sanders-fall-s...
"Sanders’ plane landed in Minneapolis with about 30 minutes to get his connecting flight. One passenger positioned himself near the end of the jet bridge to get a photo of him getting off the plane. He paused for selfies with several others as they all waited for luggage checked at the gate.
Unlike Clinton’s container-ship-sized campaign organization with more than 300 on staff, Sanders has a much smaller operation. On Saturday he traveled with only his campaign manager, his communications director, a videographer, and his wife. He figured out most of the logistics himself — securing boarding passes for the group and leading everyone through the Minneapolis airport from one terminal to the other."
1
It seems that Bernie has always wanted to move up in the world, but not at the expense of others; for example, pushing his co-captain ahead so that Mr. Jelinsky would win a race. Unlike Ms. Clinton and every single Republican candidate, he has moved up without selling out to the corporations.
This is the first time in my life that I've given money to a political candidate--and I'm 71. Go Bernie!
This is the first time in my life that I've given money to a political candidate--and I'm 71. Go Bernie!
247
This is my first time giving money to a candidate. I am 76 and I think he is the only one who makes sense. I think he is wonderful. Go Bernie!
34
The more I get to know about BERNIE SANDERS, the more I like the guy!
155
Great reporting.
42
Being " straight up honest " will always get you far even in the tooth and claw of Presedential politics, people are tired of lying politicians and this fact may alllow Senator Sanders a chance at the U.S presidency.
137
If Bernie has a challenge ahead of him, it's not to defend his authenticity, honesty, openness, and lack of corruption. Bernie's task is to convince Democrats and independents to come out and vote, first and foremost, while hammering the truth that progressivism is the only solution for a crowded world of limited resources.
“It’s great that the future president lived in my house.”
“It’s great that the future president lived in my house.”
128
What? No Republican criminal investigation, or "hearings," of Bernie Sanders? I'm sure they are looking for anything they can twist to sound like it. Just sent him my 3rd donation. Let's see more coverage of his campaign stops.
168
I've signed up to donate monthly to Bernie -- a small amount, but honest money.
5
Thank you, NYT, for finally devoting some of your space to Bernie Sanders. It is a welcome addition after seeing the front page splashed with Trump and Clinton day in and day out. I'm not saying they don't deserve to be covered, but thank you for widening your field.
181
I'm not sure why Bernie is bothering with Hillary; with a dozen (or so) Republicans running, Bernie could debate them, separately, and show the American people some real differences. Call it the 'End-Run' Presidential strategy...
116
He needs to debate Clinton, because he is running for the democratic ticket, not the republican one. Some people are such so concerned with the "other party", they don't hold their own accountable for anything. I would say, republicans get republican candidates, where as dems keep getting republican-lite candidates. The greatest moral sin is putting other people into war, by any measure, you are sacrificing their soul for your interests. When Clinton voted to go to war against Iraq, she had sealed her role. If I vote for Clinton, I will be telling future democrats that its "OK to start a war", I will forgive you (and remember it was based on Iraq having WMD's, even if he did, he was NO threat to America and war was still not acceptable). Americans need to start holding THEIR elected officials accountable, not be so worried about what the other guy is doing.
10
Debating the running Republicans? Like shooting fish in a barrel.
I'd much rather enjoy watching him debating Hillary. If she gives him the chance.
I'd much rather enjoy watching him debating Hillary. If she gives him the chance.
8
Wow! What an idea!! My guess is, only the most looney of the repubs would do this, in an effort to get their face out there. Still, it would be a spectacle that would show Bernie's saneness next to some insanity.
3
It's great to see the background of the person who I really hope, will be the next President of The United States of America. His is an American Story, through and through. And we can certainly trust that he will guide us back on the path to being an American People with an American Democracy restored while it is still not too late.
Call me a Bernie Sanders partisan, that is, an American democracy restorationist.
Call me a Bernie Sanders partisan, that is, an American democracy restorationist.
243
United States of Amnesia: Do we all not remember the hart warming stories about our current President, his community organizing, his knowledge of the Constitution...Yet he has still signed the Patriot Act, and its like, numerous times.
Bernie is playing ball, otherwise you would never see the media give him any coverage, he would be another Ron Paul. This is a game, and the American people fall for it every time.
Bernie is playing ball, otherwise you would never see the media give him any coverage, he would be another Ron Paul. This is a game, and the American people fall for it every time.
1
Boy, Alcibiades, aren't you shrewd? I guess the rest of us like to vote who we really want to win in the primaries. Bernie is the epitomy of everything people SAY they want in politics - I guess we'll find out if people know what they want.
20
I haven't been so enthused about the message of a presidential candidate in a long time. Go, Bernie!
232
The more I read about him, the more I like and respect him. He has my vote.
311