The Guardian: Vermont's socialist senator ponders a 2016 presidential run

[cal04]

Bernie Sanders, an independent, has been critical of major parties but often aligns with Democrats and will decide by March whether to seek a nomination
http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2014/dec/26/vermont-senator-ponders-2016-presidential-run

The Vermont independent senator Bernie Sanders says he will decide by March whether to launch a 2016 presidential campaign and, if so, whether he will seek the Democratic nomination. Either way, Sanders says he will not run just to nudge the debate to the left.

“I don’t want to do it unless I can do it well,” he said. “I don’t want to do it unless we can win this thing.”

(snip)
“A lack of money in my family was a very significant aspect of my growing up … kids in my class would have new jackets, new coats, and I would get hand-me-downs,” Sanders said.

(snip)
Tad Devine, a longtime consultant to Democratic presidential candidates, agreed that 2016 might present an opening to Sanders, a year in which his message could resonate. Fewer people feel they can afford the American dream of sending kids to college and looking forward to a secure retirement, Devine said.


more at link

[merrily]

1. In how many elections must he run as an Independent before people stop

identifying him as a Socialist? Besides, he never ran as a Socialist, but as a Democratic Socialist. Funny how they leave out "Democratic," isn't it?

[djean111]

2. I want SO MUCH to have a candidate I can honestly be thrilled about!!!!!!!!!

But, yeah, the Socialist tag will be applied liberally. By Democrats who have already tried to crown someone else.

[msongs]

3. the democratic party USA Inc does not value bernie's beliefs. too bad nt

[jwirr]

4. I think it is even worse than that. They value his beliefs but not when they don't get the credit.