Lesson from Bernie

[Armstead]

From website of Bernie Sanders (I -Vt). Segment of editorial from Brattleboro reformer newspaper.

http://bernie.house.gov/documents/articles/20050804165314.asp

8/4/2005, Brattleboro Reformer
Lesson from Bernie

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Sanders is one of the most liberal members of Congress. He is also the most popular politician in Vermont. People outside of Vermont can't figure it out. Those of us here who have watched him over the years know why he's won eight straight terms to Congress.

....Sanders "offers confirmation of a fundamental reality that too many progressive pols have forgotten: An ideologically muscular message delivered in a manner than crosses lines of class, region and partisanship is still the best strategy."

Sanders has been consistent in his ideology over his 35-year political career and there is absolutely no doubt about where he stands. But what has endeared Sanders to Vermonters of all political stripes is his advocacy for working people, veterans and retirees on economic issues. Few members of Congress hold as many town meetings on issues such as health care, trade policy or other assorted pocketbook issues than Sanders. As a result, people who oppose Sanders on the Iraq war or abortion rights solidly support him because he upholds the interests of average Vermonters in Washington.

This is something that too many Democrats around the country have forgotten. Too many Democrats running for public office are afraid or are unwilling to talk about economic issues. Sanders has not had that fear. Because he has made a long-term effort to educate the voters, he has shown an ability to get beyond the spin and connect with people on issues that matter. ...

...If more Democrats around the country followed the Sanders blueprint -- take clear political stands, educate voters, work and organize and build coalitions with people on common issues, and never lose touch with people's everyday concerns -- they will again be the majority party.