In April, Bernie Sanders frequently appeared alongside President Joe Biden, highlighting their shared achievements in healthcare and climate during formal White House events. At the same time, Sanders sharply criticized Donald Trump in a widely viewed campaign TikTok video.
Recently, Sanders shifted his tone, cautioning that the situation in Gaza could parallel Biden’s experience with Vietnam, referencing President Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision not to seek reelection amid public outcry over the war.
This reflects the complex relationship between Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden.
Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden (Via Satya Solomon/Shutterstock)
Despite being octogenarians, they’ve developed a strong bond since their competitive primary in 2020, strengthened further by policy successes in the past three years.
In this election year, Sanders will play a crucial role as Biden’s main advocate to progressives and younger voters. This role tests Sanders’ influence within the Democratic Party, particularly among those disillusioned with Biden’s stance on Gaza.
Although privately Sanders has shown less enthusiasm lately in defending Biden amidst the Gaza crisis, sources familiar with his thinking say he remains firm that preventing Trump’s return to power is paramount. He stresses, “This election isn’t about Joe Biden versus God. It’s about Joe Biden versus Donald Trump.”
