WARREN, Mich. — Bernie Sanders stood on the back of a pickup truck, speaking passionately to a large crowd outside a Detroit-area high school. The excitement in the air was palpable as he announced that 9,000 people had come to hear him speak, exceeding all expectations.
“This shows that people across America will not let us slide into oligarchy or authoritarianism,” he shouted, rallying the crowd. “We’re ready to fight, and we’re going to win.”
At 83, Sanders is not running for president again, but he’s become a prominent voice against Donald Trump’s increasing power. Instead of focusing on everyday issues, he is addressing the serious risks he sees in Trump’s actions. His bold stance stands in contrast to those who feel Democrats should play it safe or focus on less controversial topics.
For now, Sanders is stepping up as a leader in the anti-Trump movement, rallying voters in key districts. His recent stops included a crowd of 4,000 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and another 2,600 in Altoona the next day. Each event was strategically held in areas represented by Republicans.
Even after his recent re-election to the Senate, Sanders acknowledged this role wasn’t what he expected at this point in his life. Initially, he and his team delayed launching his “stop oligarchy tour,” hoping another Democratic leader would emerge. When that didn’t happen, Sanders took it upon himself to fill the void, sparking speculation about another potential presidential run.
“These gatherings feel like campaign rallies, but I’m not running for president,” he explained. “Our country is in trouble, and I want to help.”
Democrats have struggled to unite against Trump’s agenda since losing the White House. There’s been a lack of clear leadership or a unified strategy for the anti-Trump resistance.
“Look around — who else is doing this? No one,” remarked Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She plans to join Sanders on his tour and is also focusing on congressional districts held by Republicans where town hall meetings are scarce.
Grassroots groups like Indivisible have taken action by organizing protests against Trump and his policies. Their efforts have pressured some Republicans to openly criticize Trump and his backers.
Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, expressed admiration for Sanders’ commitment. “I wish more Democrats were actively engaging with voters,” he said. “It’s more impactful than other events that just promote books while serious issues are at stake.”
Many current Democratic leaders lack Sanders’ ability to gather large crowds quickly and mobilize effectively. Potential future candidates, like governors from California and Michigan, haven’t stepped fully into the national spotlight yet.
Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy noted the urgency for Democrats to better connect with voters. “People feel anxious and want to take action,” he said. He also acknowledged that Sanders still faces criticism from within the party, with some viewing his progressive views as too extreme.
While Sanders supported Biden in the last four years, he has recently criticized the Democratic Party for not prioritizing working-class issues. United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain echoed this, urging Democrats to recognize the working class’s needs as crucial to their support.
Voters who came to see Sanders included many who hadn’t previously backed him. Many expressed disillusionment with Democratic leaders who they feel haven’t done enough against Trump. “I’m afraid for our country,” said Diana Schack, a retired lawyer and new Sanders supporter. “These are not normal times.”
In Kenosha, Amber Schulz, a medical worker, voiced frustration with her party. “Bernie is the only politician I trust,” she said. Many attendees echoed concerns about Trump potentially undermining long-held democratic standards.
Sanders spells out a populist message that advocates for free healthcare, affordable education, and a stronger safety net. He calls out wealthy individuals, like Elon Musk, who he believes are working against the needs of everyday Americans.
“These oligarchs are powerful and have vast resources,” Sanders stated. “But I believe we can stand together to overcome them.”
While it’s uncertain how long Sanders will continue this advocacy role, he shows no signs of slowing down. With the support of his former campaign team, he is poised to keep engaging with voters and highlighting critical issues.
As political strategies differ, some suggest a more passive approach, while Sanders believes in direct engagement with the public. “You can choose to retreat or actively inspire people,” said Faiz Shakir, Sanders’ former campaign manager. “Talking with conviction is vital.”
Source link
Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump, Vermont, Wisconsin, Elon Musk, Chris Murphy, Joe Biden, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Gavin Newsom, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, James Carville, Josh Shapiro, U.S. Democratic Party, Government programs, United States government, General news, United States, MI State Wire, VT State Wire, WI State Wire, Tony Gonzales, Politics, Faiz Shakir, Washington news, Gretchen Whitmer, Elections, 2020 United States presidential election, Kamala Harris, Amber Schulz, Shawn Fain, Diana Schack, Washington News
