The Daily The Candidates: Bernie Sanders
Dec 6, 2019
Bernie Sanders, the Vermont senator and a champion of democratic socialism, shares his inspiring journey from grassroots activist to mainstream political contender. He reflects on learning from local politics, highlighting his unexpected election as mayor of Burlington against the Democratic establishment. Sanders also discusses the importance of health care reform, rooted in personal experiences, and emphasizes building strong coalitions to address both local and global issues. Political reporter Alexander Burns adds context, exploring the dynamics of the 2020 presidential race.
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Sanders' Upset Victory
- Bernie Sanders won the Burlington mayoral election by a mere 10 votes in 1981.
- This victory, against a Democratic stronghold, shocked many and marked his transition from a perennial loser to a political figure.
Early Opposition and Obstacles
- Upon becoming mayor, Sanders faced immediate opposition from the Board of Aldermen, who even fired his secretary.
- They rejected his nominees for city positions, forcing him to work with his predecessor's administration.
Grassroots Mobilization
- Facing a hostile Board of Aldermen, Sanders built a "parallel city government" by mobilizing grassroots support.
- He organized community councils and planning associations, empowering citizens and bypassing the board's obstruction.