Senator Bernie Sanders expressed his concerns about the Democratic Party’s practices during a recent appearance on the Flagrant podcast, stating that the absence of a “fair primary” makes the party a potential threat to democracy. Sanders reflected on his experiences during the 2016 presidential campaign, where he was urged by party leaders to withdraw in favor of Hillary Clinton.
During the podcast, host Andrew Schulz emphasized that the party had removed democratic processes from its members and called for more accountability. Sanders, a lifelong Democrat, agreed with this sentiment, acknowledging the challenges within the party.
Cohost Akaash Singh pointed out that since 2008, there has not been a fair primary for Democrats, questioning the party’s commitment to democratic principles. Sanders concurred with this observation, highlighting ongoing concerns about the party’s nomination methods.
As the 2024 election approaches, the Democratic Party’s decision not to conduct a primary for Vice President Kamala Harris has drawn criticism. While President Joe Biden had garnered considerable support in earlier primaries, his withdrawal before the Democratic National Convention raised further questions about the electoral process.
Investor Kevin O’Leary recently voiced similar concerns on CNN, accusing the Democratic Party of bypassing democracy, referencing both Clinton and the current election cycle as instances of this troubling trend.
Primary elections are often seen as essential to maintaining a healthy democracy, as the U.S. Constitution does not enforce a strict two-party system. The ongoing discussions surrounding this issue may serve to ignite a broader conversation about the need for reform within the Democratic Party, reflecting a desire among constituents for a more inclusive and fair electoral process.
By addressing these concerns, there is hope for a more democratic engagement and accountability within the party, which could lead to revitalized trust from voters.