Currently, Bernie Sanders is indisputably the most effective political figure in mobilizing public support within the American progressive movement.
Wherever he goes, large crowds, spanning from young to old, gather to hear him speak.
Sanders attributes Trump’s election to the failure of American politicians to address the economic struggles of ordinary Americans, who may lack wealth, advanced education, or specialized skills but still hold the power to vote.
He argues that these politicians have prioritized globalization and financialization, enriching Wall Street billionaires while ignoring the broader population.
“Sixty percent of Americans have no savings and are scraping by, spending their entire paycheck on rent and groceries. Why aren’t the media and establishment politicians talking about this?” His critique cuts deep.
When a reporter noted that many Democratic politicians disagree with Sanders’ approach to countering Trump, suggesting that Democrats should strategically remain silent and wait for Trump to self-destruct, Sanders responded with data.
“Over the past 35 years, the wealth share of the top 0.1% has risen from 8.6% to 13.6%, and the top 1% from 14.2% to 16.8%. Meanwhile, the wealth share of the bottom 99% has declined, with the bottom 50% holding just 2.5% of total wealth.”
“That’s the reality. over the last 30 to 40 years, the rich have gotten richer, while 60% of Americans are left with zero savings, worrying about making rent each month.”
He continued, “The healthcare system is collapsing, and the childcare system has been broken for years.
Staying silent and doing nothing is exactly the problem, and the Democratic Party has been doing this for far too long.”
When the reporter asked what the Democratic Party needs to recognize, Sanders emphasized the importance of connecting with working-class voters.
“Why have so many American workers turned away from the Democratic Party? What does it take to win back their trust?
Do you think ordinary Americans voted for Trump because they wanted tax cuts for billionaires?
I don’t believe that.
The painful truth is that the Democratic Party has relied on empty rhetoric for too long without taking meaningful action.
It’s time for fundamental change.
The party must decide will it keep siding with billionaire donors, or will it stand with workers?