Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont announced Monday he will run for reelection this year, squelching speculation that the 82-year-old progressive icon might retire at a time when the Democratic Party is anxious about the advancing age of its top leaders.

Hailing from a Democratic stronghold, Sanders’ decision virtually guarantees that he will return to Washington for a fourth Senate term. And his announcement comes at a critical moment for Democrats as the party navigates a growing divide over Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.

Sanders has criticized President Joe Biden’s handling of the U.S. relationship with Israel even as he’s hailed much of Biden’s domestic agenda ahead of what could be a tough reelection fight for Biden against presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump.

  • mox@lemmy.sdf.org
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    27
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    edit-2
    2 months ago

    I’m going to feel pretty hypocritical backing his candidacy, while I’ve said his 80+ year old colleagues are too old for the job.

    It’s okay to acknowledge exceptions to a general rule.

    Another exception: If I remember correctly, Bernie was the only presidential candidate (last time he ran) with the open intention of getting money out of politics. That and replacing the first-past-the-post voting system would unlock US political reform, IMHO.

    • Fredselfish@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      5
      ·
      2 months ago

      I am supporting him and even going donate. Sad he can’t retire but I feel he only Senator trying to fight conservatism in the government. Wish he was running for president. Maybe in 2028.