Bernie Sanders presented a comprehensive progressive agenda that he believes Democrats should implement if Kamala Harris becomes president, during his speech at the party’s nominating convention in Chicago on Tuesday.
While Sanders mentioned Harris sparingly, he emphasized key issues such as expanding healthcare access, lowering the cost of higher education, and increasing the minimum wage. As he campaigns for a fourth Senate term this November, Sanders expressed optimism that Democrats could unite to effectuate significant change, reminiscent of the rapid legislative responses during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic with the American Rescue Plan.
“We need to summon that will again – because too many of our fellow Americans are struggling every day to just get by,” Sanders said. He noted that when there is political determination, the government can make a substantial difference in citizens’ lives.
His speech echoed themes from his previous presidential campaigns, advocating for reducing the influence of big money in politics, ensuring healthcare as a fundamental right, and confronting pharmaceutical companies. Although he acknowledged the achievements of President Joe Biden’s administration, he underscored the need for continued action.
“Much more remains to be done,” Sanders stated, calling for courage to confront wealth and power to achieve justice both domestically and internationally.
Notably, Sanders’ remarks concentrated on policy rather than directly endorsing Harris, despite his earlier support for Biden following a difficult debate performance. He maintained that Biden is still the strongest candidate against Trump, even as frustrations with the president’s performance grew among some Democrats. Recently, he referred to Harris as “a very strong candidate” and stressed that Democrats should not become complacent in the upcoming election.
In his address, Sanders detailed his economic populism in stark contrast to the policies outlined in Project 2025, a rightwing agenda that has been criticized by Democrats. He clarified, “Let’s be clear: this is not a radical agenda,” arguing that prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthy and undermining social programs is the true radicalism.
The convention crowd greeted Sanders warmly, particularly when he spoke about the conflict in Gaza. He has been a prominent critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has voiced disappointment with Biden’s handling of the situation. “Abroad, we must end this horrific war in Gaza, bring home the hostages, and demand an immediate ceasefire,” he declared, eliciting strong applause from attendees.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have taken place throughout Chicago this week, urging Biden for a different strategy regarding the war. As sentiment builds among progressives for Harris to adopt a new stance on Israel, she is expected to clarify her perspectives when she speaks at the convention on Thursday.
In anticipation of Harris’ potential presidency, Sanders conveyed his readiness to back her campaign. “On November 5, let us elect Kamala Harris as our president,” he urged. “And let us go forward to create the nation we know we can become.”