Undercurrents David Weigel: Bernie Sanders is schooling the Democrats
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Mar 24, 2025 
David Weigel is a Semaphore reporter who has closely followed Bernie Sanders and the political left. In this conversation, Weigel shares insights from his time on the road with Sanders as they rally against oligarchy. Sanders discusses his evolving views on immigration and age, contemplating the future of the Democratic Party. They explore the mobilization of grassroots protests and how this left-wing populism compares to historical movements like the Tea Party, all while addressing challenges faced by Democrats in a contentious political landscape.
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Bernie's Big Rallies
- Dave Weigel attended Bernie Sanders' rallies, observing crowds comparable to Sanders' presidential rallies, even larger in Denver.
- These rallies drew a mix of new and old supporters, exceeding the scale of early Tea Party rallies.
Reasons for Rally Attendance
- Many attendees, drawn to the rallies' energy, sought active participation in opposing Trump and Musk.
- Musk's growing influence is central to this resistance movement.
Organic Crowds, Not Astroturf
- Elon Musk dismissed the rallies as astroturfed, but Weigel's on-the-ground experience suggests organic grassroots support.
- Attendees were motivated by genuine anger and a desire to protest, not financial incentives.