Bernie Sanders supports Democrat accused of making racist and sexist comments

Progressive Senator Bernie Sanders has expressed support for Justin Brannan, a Democratic candidate for New York City Secretary, who has a controversial past filled with racist, sexist, and homophobic remarks from his days as a punk rock musician.

Brannan, currently a New York City Councilman, claims he aims to combat corruption and advocate for the working class. His campaign website highlights that his music scene upbringing taught him the value of community support—”people look for each other and pick each other up when they fall.”

However, a review of Brannan’s past comments from the ’90s reveals a troubling contrast to these values. Some statements made in music forums reflect derogatory views towards various ethnicities and sexual orientations.

In two separate occurrences in 1999, Brannan used a racial slur while referring to musicians and made other offensive remarks. Additionally, a 1998 interview showed him making bizarre comments about personal grooming, even joking that he wanted his shaved head to resemble a Nazi style.

He has also made disparaging remarks about Asian drivers, humorously questioning their capabilities, and, rather insensitively, poked fun at an actor’s ethnicity. Bluntly, he remarked on instances of disabled individuals, claiming humor could be found in their struggles.

There’s further controversy surrounding accusations that he bullied autistic colleagues while working for the city, resulting in a significant legal settlement.

Brannan’s candidacy comes at a turbulent time. With the primary approaching on June 24th, he’s vying to replace the current city secretary, recently apprehended by federal authorities over alleged misconduct.

Interestingly, Sanders has also endorsed another candidate, Zoran Mamdani, indicating he’s backing a progressive shift in New York politics. Still, neither Brannan nor Sanders’ offices offered comments by the deadline.