Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) stated in a New York Times report last Thursday that the tour with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) aims to encourage more independent candidates to run.
“One aspect of this tour is to bring people together and engage in the political process, including running as an independent, non-Democrat,” Sanders said I told The Times.
“There’s a lot of great leadership in this country at a grassroots level. We need to move forward with it. And if that’s the case, we can beat Trumpism and change the political situation in America,” he added.
The tour includes stops in Las Vegas and Tempe, Arizona, on Thursday and Friday, followed by Greeley, Colorado, Denver, and Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday.
“This week, I will be heading to Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado to host a town hall with working-class Americans, along with @AOC, @Gregcasar, and @Stevenhorsford,” Sanders said on a social platform x. “Together, we will stand strong against authoritarianism. We hope you will join us.”
Sanders’ comments come amid confusion among Democrats over President Trump and how to counter his administration, with frustration growing after a small group of Senate Democrats voted to advance a fundraising bill created by Republicans, despite intense opposition from many party members.
“If they want a Democrat, they need to reach out. Let’s open the door and welcome working-class people and have the party come from working-class leadership,” Sanders told The Times. “If not, I think people are running as independents across the country.”
Hill reached out to the Democratic National Committee and the White House for comment.
