On Monday, Senator Bernie Sanders criticized the Democratic party on CBS This Morning for not paying attention to the concerns of the white working class. The Bern said Donald Trump was able to tap into this demographic “effectively,” which helped propel him to the presidency. He didn’t hold back in his feelings for the Democratic party, saying he was “deeply humiliated” at how his party can’t relate to these citizens:
“There needs to be a profound change in the way the Democratic Party does business. It is not good enough to have a liberal elite. I come from the white working class and I am deeply humiliated that the Democratic Party can’t talk to the people where I came from.”
This criticism echoes some of what we’ve heard from Michael Moore, and indeed, this is likely one of the reasons why Hillary Clinton lost the election. The Bern’s concerns do seem genuine, as he built his platform as one for those who have felt left behind by the system.
During primary season, the Democratic National Committee reportedly mocked Bern’s campaign and wanted to quiz him about his religious affiliation, but he seemed to put this pettiness aside in order to work with the party to help the country. However, the Vermont senator seems to have a little bit of fight in him as he said he’s “going to hold Mr. Trump accountable” if he enacts any of his inflammatory policies.
Mr. Trump, you talked about being the champion of working families. Now produce. But we won't accept racism, sexism or xenophobia.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) November 13, 2016
When asked by CBS if he felt he could have beaten Trump in the presidential election, he remained mum on the topic, only saying Clinton should have won by double digits if the Democratic party campaigned better. This tweet could illustrate what the Bern means by that statement.
Democrats have focused too much on raising incredible sums of money from wealthy people, and have largely ignored working families.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) November 13, 2016
As for a future presidential run, The Bern said he isn’t ruling it out, but its a bit early to say right now.
(Via CBS)