Bernard Sanders is a prominent American politician known for his exceptionally long tenure as an independent in the U.S. Congress. Despite his independent status, he maintains close ties with the Democratic Party, having caucused with them throughout his career. Sanders sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, emerging as a runner-up in both instances. He is widely recognized as a leading figure in the American progressive movement.
1912: Birth of Bernie Sanders's Mother
Bernie Sanders's mother, Dorothy Sanders (née Glassberg), was born in New York City in 1912.
1921: Bernie Sanders's Father Immigrates to the United States
In 1921, Bernie Sanders's father, Elias Sanders, immigrated to the United States from Poland. Sadly, his family became victims of the Holocaust. In the United States, Elias worked as a paint salesman.
September 8, 1941: Birth of Bernie Sanders
Bernie Sanders was born on September 8, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York.
September 8, 1941: Bernie Sanders is Born
Bernie Sanders was born on September 8, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York. His parents were Elias Ben Yehuda Sanders and Dorothy Sanders (née Glassberg).
1948: Last Socialist Elected to the House
Vito Marcantonio of the American Labor Party was the last socialist elected to the U.S. House of Representatives before Bernie Sanders in 1990, winning his final term in 1948.
1952: Last Independent Elected to the House
Frazier Reams of Ohio was the last independent elected to the U.S. House of Representatives before Bernie Sanders in 1990, when he won his second term in 1952.
1954: Bernie Sanders's Bar Mitzvah
Bernie Sanders celebrated his Bar Mitzvah in 1954.
1956: Introduction to Political Activism
Bernie Sanders' introduction to political activism came in 1956 when his brother joined the Young Democrats and campaigned for Adlai Stevenson II.
1959: Bernie Sanders Attends Brooklyn College
Bernie Sanders's higher education journey began in 1959 when he enrolled at Brooklyn College.
1960: Death of Bernie Sanders's Mother
Bernie Sanders's mother, Dorothy, passed away in 1960.
1960: Bernie Sanders Transfers to the University of Chicago
In 1960, after a year at Brooklyn College, Bernie Sanders transferred to the University of Chicago to continue his studies.
January 1962: Bernie Sanders Protests Segregated Housing
In January 1962, Bernie Sanders, a student at the University of Chicago, participated in a protest against the university's segregated housing policy. He and other students camped outside the president's office, leading to the formation of a commission to investigate discrimination.
1962: Death of Bernie Sanders's Father
Tragically, just two years after his mother's passing, Bernie Sanders's father died in 1962 when Bernie was 19 years old.
1962: Death of Bernie Sanders's Father
Bernie Sanders's father, Elias, passed away in 1962.
1963: Volunteering at an Israeli Kibbutz
Bernie Sanders and Deborah Shiling Messing volunteered at the Israeli kibbutz Sha'ar HaAmakim in 1963.
1963: Bernie Sanders Attends the March on Washington
Bernie Sanders participated in the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, a pivotal event in the civil rights movement where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech.
1963: University of Chicago Ends Segregated Housing
Due in part to continued student protests, including those Bernie Sanders participated in, the University of Chicago ended racial segregation in its private housing in the summer of 1963, marking a significant victory for the civil rights movement.
1963: Volunteering at Sha'ar HaAmakim Kibbutz
Motivated by both socialist and Zionist beliefs, Bernie Sanders and his first wife volunteered at the Sha'ar HaAmakim kibbutz in northern Israel in 1963 in association with the Labor Zionist youth movement Hashomer Hatzair.
1964: Bernie Sanders Earns his Degree in Political Science
Bernie Sanders's academic journey culminated in 1964 when he graduated from the University of Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, a field that would shape his career path.
1964: Marriage to Deborah Shiling Messing
Bernie Sanders married Deborah Shiling Messing in 1964. They purchased a summer home in Vermont.
1964: Bernie Sanders Graduates from the University of Chicago
Bernie Sanders graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Chicago in 1964.
1966: Divorce from Deborah Shiling Messing
Bernie Sanders and Deborah Shiling Messing divorced in 1966. They did not have any children together.
1968: Bernie Sanders Moves to Vermont
In 1968, Bernie Sanders made a significant life change by moving to Vermont, where he would later launch his political career.
1968: Move to Stannard, Vermont
In 1968, Bernie Sanders moved to Stannard, Vermont, a small town in the rural Northeast Kingdom region, drawn to the appeal of rural life.
1969: Move to Montpelier
Bernie Sanders resided in Montpelier from 1969 to 1971.
1969: Birth of Son, Levi Sanders
Bernie Sanders's son, Levi Sanders, was born in 1969 to his then-girlfriend, Susan Campbell Mott. Levi is his only biological child.
1970: Stannard Population Count
In 1970, the census recorded Stannard, Vermont, as having 88 residents.
1971: Joining Vermont's Liberty Union Party
Bernie Sanders joined Vermont's Liberty Union Party in 1971 and ran for various offices, though he was never close to winning.
1971: Birth of Stepdaughter, Heather Titus
Bernie Sanders's stepdaughter, Heather Titus, was born in 1971.
1971: Move to Burlington and Start of Political Career
After moving to Burlington in 1971, Bernie Sanders began his political career as a member of the Liberty Union Party.
1972: Gubernatorial and Senatorial Runs
Bernie Sanders ran as the Liberty Union candidate for governor of Vermont and in the special election for U.S. senator in 1972.
1974: Birth of Stepdaughter, Carina Driscoll
Bernie Sanders's stepdaughter, Carina Driscoll, was born in 1974.
1974: Senatorial Run
In the 1974 U.S. senatorial race, Bernie Sanders finished third, behind Patrick Leahy and Dick Mallary.
1975: Birth of Stepson, Dave Driscoll
Bernie Sanders's stepson, Dave Driscoll, was born in 1975.
1976: Early Advocacy for Workplace Democracy
As early as 1976, Bernie Sanders began advocating for workplace democracy, expressing his belief that workers should have a say in the management of major industries.
1976: Gubernatorial Run
Bernie Sanders ran again as the Liberty Union candidate for governor of Vermont in 1976.
1976: Analysis of Gubernatorial Election Results
Richard Sugarman showed Bernie Sanders a ward-by-ward analysis of the 1976 Vermont gubernatorial election, revealing his strong performance in Burlington, which encouraged him to run for mayor.
1976: Zenith of Liberty Union Influence
The 1976 campaign marked the peak of the Liberty Union's influence, with Sanders's strong performance impacting down-ballot races.
October 1977: Retirement from Liberty Union Party
In October 1977, Bernie Sanders and Nancy Kaufman announced their retirement from the Liberty Union Party.
1977: Work with American People's Historical Society
After leaving the Liberty Union Party in 1977, Bernie Sanders worked as a writer and director for the American People's Historical Society, where he produced a documentary about Eugene V. Debs.
1977: Leaving Liberty Union Party and Becoming an Independent
Bernie Sanders left the Liberty Union Party in 1977 and began his political career as an independent.
November 8, 1980: Announcement of Mayoral Candidacy
Bernie Sanders announced his candidacy for mayor of Burlington on November 8, 1980.
1980: Electoral College Vote for Socialist Workers Party
In 1980, Bernie Sanders served as an elector for the Socialist Workers Party.
1980: Electoral Role for Socialist Workers Party
During the 1980 presidential election, Sanders served as one of three electors for the Socialist Workers Party in Vermont.
1981: First Election as Mayor of Burlington
Bernie Sanders was first elected as the mayor of Burlington, Vermont in 1981, defeating the incumbent Democratic mayor.
1981: Bernie Sanders Elected Mayor of Burlington
Bernie Sanders's political career began in earnest in 1981 when he was elected mayor of Burlington, Vermont, as an independent.
1981: Opposition to Waterfront Development Plans
In 1981, Bernie Sanders campaigned against unpopular development plans for Burlington's Lake Champlain waterfront, advocating for a mixed-use district that benefited the public.
December 3, 1982: Announcement of Reelection Bid
Bernie Sanders announced his decision to seek reelection as mayor of Burlington on December 3, 1982.
January 22, 1983: Endorsement from Citizens Party
On January 22, 1983, the Citizens Party unanimously endorsed Bernie Sanders for reelection as mayor of Burlington.
1983: Speech at Socialist Party USA Conference
Bernie Sanders delivered a speech at the 1983 conference of the Socialist Party USA.
December 5, 1984: Announcement of Third Term Candidacy
Despite initial considerations not to run, Bernie Sanders announced on December 5, 1984, his decision to seek a third term as mayor of Burlington.
1984: Lukewarm Endorsement of Walter Mondale
Bernie Sanders offered a lukewarm endorsement of Walter Mondale in the 1984 presidential election, expressing reservations about Mondale's potential presidency.
1985: Hosting Noam Chomsky's Speech
In 1985, Burlington City Hall, under Bernie Sanders's leadership, hosted a foreign policy speech by Noam Chomsky, whom Sanders praised for his critical voice.
December 1, 1986: Announcement of Fourth Term Candidacy
On December 1, 1986, despite indications of fatigue from his mayoral role, Bernie Sanders announced his bid for a fourth term as mayor of Burlington.
1986: Start of "Bernie Speaks with the Community"
Bernie Sanders began hosting and producing his public-access television program, "Bernie Speaks with the Community," in 1986.
December 1987: Recording of "We Shall Overcome"
While serving as the mayor of Burlington in December 1987, Bernie Sanders recorded a folk album titled "We Shall Overcome". The album featured collaborations with 30 Vermont musicians. Not known for his singing abilities, Sanders delivered his vocals in a talking blues style.
1987: Decision Against Fifth Term
After his fourth term, Bernie Sanders stated his intention not to seek another term as mayor of Burlington.
1987: Defining Democracy and Worker Ownership
In 1987, Bernie Sanders articulated his vision of democracy as encompassing public ownership and workers' self-management in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of decentralization and worker involvement.
1987: Release of "We Shall Overcome" and Recognition by U.S. News & World Report
In 1987, Bernie Sanders collaborated with Vermont musicians to record and release the folk album "We Shall Overcome." That same year, U.S. News & World Report recognized him as one of America's best mayors.
May 28, 1988: Marriage to Jane O'Meara Driscoll
Bernie Sanders married Jane O'Meara Driscoll on May 28, 1988, in Burlington, Vermont. The following day, they travelled to the Soviet Union as part of an official delegation.
1988: End of "Bernie Speaks with the Community"
Bernie Sanders's public-access television program, "Bernie Speaks with the Community," concluded in 1988.
1988: First Run for U.S. House of Representatives
In 1988, Bernie Sanders first ran for the U.S. House of Representatives, adopting a strategy of winning the Democratic primary to eliminate Democratic challengers and then running as an independent in the general election.
1988: Trip to the Soviet Union
During a 1988 trip to the Soviet Union, Bernie Sanders, then mayor of Burlington, interviewed his counterpart in Yaroslavl, Burlington's sister city, discussing housing and healthcare.
1988: Cameo in "Sweet Hearts Dance"
Bernie Sanders had a cameo appearance in the 1988 comedy-drama "Sweet Hearts Dance", where he played a character distributing candy to trick-or-treaters.
1988: First Congressional Run
Bernie Sanders ran as an independent for Vermont's at-large congressional district seat in 1988, placing second to Peter P. Smith.
1988: Enthusiastic Support for Jesse Jackson
Bernie Sanders enthusiastically supported Jesse Jackson's presidential campaign in 1988.
1989: Legacy as Mayor of Burlington
When Bernie Sanders stepped down as mayor in 1989, city council member Bouricius acknowledged his significant impact on Burlington and Vermont politics.
1990: Bernie Sanders Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives
Bernie Sanders's political career continued to climb in 1990 when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Vermont's at-large congressional district.
1990: Sanders' Congressional Bid and Gun Control
In 1990, during his campaign for U.S. Representative, Bernie Sanders' stance on gun control was less strict. He benefitted from the NRA's opposition to his opponent.
1991: Start of Congressional Tenure
Bernie Sanders served as a U.S. Representative from 1991 until he became a senator in 2007.
1991: Votes Against Authorization for Use of Force Against Iraq
In 1991, Bernie Sanders expressed his strong opposition to the use of military force against Iraq by voting against the resolution authorizing it.
1991: Lectureship at Hamilton College
In 1991, Bernie Sanders lectured in political science at Hamilton College.
1991: Co-founds Congressional Progressive Caucus
In 1991, despite facing criticism for his critiques of both parties, Bernie Sanders co-founded the Congressional Progressive Caucus, a group primarily composed of liberal Democrats. He served as its chair for the first eight years. Notably, he maintained his independent status, declining to join the Democratic Party or caucus.
February 7, 1992: Sponsors Cancer Registries Amendment Act
Driven by concerns over high breast cancer rates in Vermont, on February 7, 1992, Bernie Sanders took action by sponsoring the Cancer Registries Amendment Act. This bill aimed to establish cancer registries for improved data collection and analysis to combat cancer effectively.
October 2, 1992: Senator Patrick Leahy Introduces Companion Bill in the Senate
Senator Patrick Leahy joined Bernie Sanders in his efforts to pass the Cancer Registries Amendment Act by introducing a companion bill in the Senate on October 2, 1992, further solidifying support for the legislation.
October 24, 1992: Cancer Registries Amendment Act Signed into Law
On October 24, 1992, the Cancer Registries Amendment Act, a bill previously sponsored by Bernie Sanders in the House and Patrick Leahy in the Senate, was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, marking a significant legislative victory in the fight against cancer.
1993: Votes Against Brady Bill
In 1993, Bernie Sanders voted against the Brady Bill, a piece of legislation aimed at reducing gun violence by implementing federal background checks and waiting periods for firearm purchases. Sanders argued that such mandates were better suited for state-level rather than federal regulation. His stance reflected the views of his constituents in Vermont, who favored a more localized approach to gun control.
1993: Vote Against the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act
In 1993, as a U.S. Representative, Bernie Sanders voted against the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, which aimed to establish background checks and waiting periods for gun purchases.
1994: Reelection During the Republican Revolution
During the 1994 Republican Revolution, Bernie Sanders won reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives by a narrow margin.
1994: Votes for Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act
In 1994, Bernie Sanders voted in favor of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act. Despite his support for the inclusion of the Violence Against Women Act and the ban on certain assault weapons within the bill, he remained critical of other provisions. Sanders argued that the bill's repressive measures failed to address the root causes of violence and advocated for alternative solutions like creating jobs and rebuilding communities to tackle issues such as poverty and lack of opportunity.
1995: Republican-Controlled Congress
From 1995 onward, the U.S. Congress was under complete Republican control. It was during this time that Bernie Sanders, an Independent, honed his skills in forming bipartisan coalitions to advance his legislative agenda.
1996: Votes Against Bill Prohibiting Police from Purchasing Military Equipment
In 1996, Bernie Sanders opposed and voted against a bill that sought to prevent police departments from acquiring military-grade equipment such as tanks and armored carriers. This vote reflected his stance on law enforcement and sentencing.
1996: Vote Against CDC Funding for Firearms Research
In 1996, Bernie Sanders voted against additional funding for the CDC to conduct research on firearms-related issues.
1998: Votes for Bill Increasing Minimum Sentencing for Gun Possession During Federal Crimes
In 1998, Bernie Sanders voted in favor of a bill that aimed to strengthen penalties for firearm-related offenses. The bill proposed a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years for individuals found guilty of possessing a gun while committing a federal crime. Notably, this included nonviolent offenses such as marijuana possession. Sanders' vote reflected his perspective on law enforcement and sentencing guidelines.
1999: Opposes Rolling Back Glass-Steagall Act
In 1999, Bernie Sanders took a firm stance against the repeal of the Glass-Steagall Act, a law designed to separate investment banks from commercial banks. His opposition stemmed from concerns over the potential risks to the financial system.
1999: Role in "My X-Girlfriend's Wedding Reception"
In 1999, Sanders took on a role in the film "My X-Girlfriend's Wedding Reception", portraying Rabbi Manny Shevitz. Reflecting Sanders' personal connection to Brooklyn, his character reminisces about the Brooklyn Dodgers' move to Los Angeles.
October 2000: China Granted Permanent Normal Trade Relations Status
In October 2000, China was granted permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status by the United States. This decision later faced criticism from figures like Bernie Sanders, who argued that the policy had detrimental effects on American jobs.
2001: Votes for Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Terrorists
Following the September 11 attacks, Bernie Sanders voted in favor of the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Terrorists. Despite this vote, he remained a vocal critic of the Bush administration's decision to initiate a unilateral war in Iraq, highlighting his nuanced approach to foreign policy and national security.
2002: Votes Against Authorization for Use of Force Against Iraq
Maintaining his stance against military intervention in Iraq, Bernie Sanders voted against the 2002 resolution that granted authorization for the use of force.
June 2003: Criticizes Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan
During a question-and-answer session in June 2003, Bernie Sanders openly criticized Alan Greenspan, the then-Federal Reserve Chair. Sanders expressed concern that Greenspan was "way out of touch" and prioritized the interests of the wealthy and large corporations over the common good.
2003: Opposes Invasion of Iraq
Bernie Sanders stood firmly against the 2003 invasion of Iraq, further solidifying his anti-war stance.
February 2005: Introduces Bill to Withdraw Permanent Normal Trade Relations Status for China
In February 2005, Bernie Sanders introduced a bill to revoke China's permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status, which was granted in October 2000. He argued that the trade policy with China had failed, citing job losses in the United States. Although his bill gained support from 71 co-sponsors, it wasn't brought to the floor for a vote.
April 21, 2005: Enters U.S. Senate Race
Bernie Sanders launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate on April 21, 2005, following Senator Jim Jeffords' decision to retire after serving three terms.
May 2005: Endorsed by Howard Dean
In May 2005, Howard Dean, the then-chair of the Democratic National Committee and former Vermont governor, endorsed Bernie Sanders in his Senate bid. Dean highlighted Sanders' alignment with the Democratic Party, stating that he "votes with the Democrats 98% of the time."
June 2005: Proposes Amendment to Limit Patriot Act Provisions
In June 2005, demonstrating his staunch opposition to the Patriot Act, Bernie Sanders put forth an amendment designed to limit specific provisions within the act. This amendment sought to safeguard individual privacy by preventing the government from obtaining personal records related to library use and book purchases. The amendment garnered bipartisan support, passing in the House, but was ultimately removed during negotiations with the Senate.
2005: Vote on Gun Manufacturer Immunity
In 2005, Bernie Sanders voted for legislation granting gun manufacturers legal immunity against negligence claims. He later expressed support for repealing this law.
2005: Votes for Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act
In 2005, Bernie Sanders voted for the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, which aimed to shield firearms manufacturers and dealers from liability in cases where their products were used in criminal activities.
2005: "Amendment King"
In 2005, Rolling Stone dubbed Bernie Sanders the "amendment king" for his exceptional ability to pass roll call amendments. Since 1995, during a period of Republican-controlled Congress, Sanders leveraged his independent status to build coalitions across party lines, resulting in a significant number of amendments passed.
March 2006: Campaigned for by Barack Obama
During his 2006 Senate campaign, Bernie Sanders received support from then-Senator Barack Obama, who traveled to Vermont to campaign for him.
2006: First Run for U.S. Senate
Bernie Sanders first ran for the U.S. Senate in 2006, using the same strategy he employed in his 1988 House race: winning the Democratic primary and then running as an independent in the general election.
2006: Bernie Sanders Elected to the U.S. Senate
In 2006, Bernie Sanders was elected to the U.S. Senate, becoming the first non-Republican to represent Vermont in the Senate since 1850.
2007: Joining the Democratic Caucus and Impact on Senate Majority
In 2007, Bernie Sanders's decision to caucus with the Democrats had significant implications. It provided them with a 51-49 majority in the Senate during the 110th Congress, a critical advantage in advancing their legislative agenda.
2007: Transition to Senate
Bernie Sanders's tenure as a U.S. Representative ended in 2007 when he became a senator.
2007: Sanders Opposes Immigration Reform Bill Over Guest-Worker Program Concerns
In 2007, Bernie Sanders opposed a comprehensive immigration reform bill, expressing concerns that its guest-worker program could potentially lower wages for American workers. This stance highlighted his commitment to protecting American jobs amidst immigration reform debates.
2008: Votes Against Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP)
In 2008, Bernie Sanders opposed and voted against the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), a government program designed to address the financial crisis by purchasing toxic assets from struggling banks.
2008: Clinton Supporters and the McCain Vote
In the 2008 presidential election, a certain percentage of Hillary Clinton's supporters ended up voting for John McCain, the Republican nominee. This voter crossover became a point of comparison when analyzing voting patterns in subsequent elections, particularly in the context of the 2016 election and the choices made by Bernie Sanders' supporters.
2008: Endorsement of Barack Obama
Bernie Sanders, not a candidate himself in the 2008 presidential elections, endorsed Barack Obama for president. This occurred before Hillary Clinton had formally withdrawn from the race.
February 4, 2009: Sponsors Amendment to Protect U.S. Workers Amidst TARP Bailout
On February 4, 2009, in response to the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), Bernie Sanders proposed an amendment to ensure that the bailout funds wouldn't come at the expense of American jobs. The amendment was successfully passed and incorporated into the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
December 2009: Sanders Secures Funding for Community Health Centers in Affordable Care Act
In December 2009, Bernie Sanders successfully advocated for a provision in the Affordable Care Act to allocate $11 billion in funding for community health centers, particularly those in rural areas. This provision garnered support from Democrats across the political spectrum, proving crucial in obtaining the 60 votes necessary for the Act's passage.
2009: Support for Same-Sex Marriage in Vermont
In 2009, Bernie Sanders showed his support for LGBTQ+ rights by supporting the legalization of same-sex marriage in Vermont.
December 10, 2010: Sanders Delivers Eight-Hour Speech Against Tax Cut Extension
On December 10, 2010, Bernie Sanders delivered an eight-hour speech opposing the proposed extension of Bush-era tax rates. He argued that the legislation unfairly favored the wealthy. Despite his efforts, the bill passed with a strong majority.
2010: Sanders Voices Support for DREAM Act, Advocating for Undocumented Immigrants' Rights
In 2010, Bernie Sanders demonstrated his support for undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children by backing the DREAM Act. This legislation aimed to provide a pathway to citizenship for these individuals, reflecting Sanders's commitment to immigration reform.
February 2011: "The Speech: A Historic Filibuster on Corporate Greed and the Decline of Our Middle Class" Published
In February 2011, Nation Books published Bernie Sanders's eight-hour speech against the extension of Bush-era tax rates as a book. The proceeds from the book, titled "The Speech: A Historic Filibuster on Corporate Greed and the Decline of Our Middle Class," were donated to Vermont nonprofit organizations.
August 2011: High Approval Ratings and Recognition from Advocacy Groups
In August 2011, polling indicated that Bernie Sanders enjoyed a 67% approval rating, making him one of the most popular senators. He also received perfect voting scores from organizations like the NAACP and NHLA, reflecting his strong support among minority communities.
2011: Suggesting a Primary Challenge to Obama
In 2011, Bernie Sanders hinted at the possibility of someone challenging President Obama in the primaries, expressing that it could be a good idea.
2012: Considering a Primary Challenge Against Obama
During the 2012 Democratic presidential primaries, Bernie Sanders, unhappy with some of President Obama's policies, reportedly contemplated running against him in the primaries.
2012: Reelected to U.S. Senate
In 2012, Bernie Sanders secured his re-election to the U.S. Senate, winning by a significant margin with 71% of the vote, demonstrating his strong support in Vermont.
2012: Not a Presidential Candidate
Bernie Sanders did not participate as a candidate in the 2012 presidential election.
2012: Bernie Sanders Re-elected to the Senate
Bernie Sanders secured re-election to the Senate in 2012, further solidifying his political career.
November 2013: Potential Support for Elizabeth Warren's Candidacy
By November 2013, Bernie Sanders suggested that Senator Elizabeth Warren could be a viable presidential candidate and that he might endorse her.
2013: Sanders Leads Effort to Strengthen Support for Senior Citizens
In 2013, as chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Primary Health and Aging, Bernie Sanders took the lead in introducing legislation to reauthorize and bolster the Older Americans Act. This crucial legislation provides essential support for programs like Meals on Wheels, ensuring the well-being of senior citizens.
2013: Sanders Supports Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill with Provisions for Job Creation
Bernie Sanders lent his support to the Gang of Eight's comprehensive immigration reform bill in 2013 after securing a $1.5 billion youth jobs program provision. He argued that this provision would mitigate potential job market competition caused by immigration, aiming for a balanced approach to reform.
2013: Larry Sanders Retires from Oxfordshire County Council
Bernie Sanders's brother, Larry, retired from his position as a Green Party county councillor on the Oxfordshire County Council in 2013.
2013: Burlington Ranked as a Livable City
By 2013, Burlington was recognized as one of the most livable cities in the United States.
2013: Bernie Sanders Chairs the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee
From 2013 to 2015, Bernie Sanders served as the chair of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, advocating for veterans' rights and benefits.
2013: Sanders Chairs Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs Amidst Healthcare Scandal
In 2013, Bernie Sanders assumed the chairmanship of the United States Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, coinciding with the Veterans Health Administration scandal. This position granted him a significant platform to address the issues within the VA and advocate for veterans' healthcare.
June 9, 2014: Sanders Introduces Bill to Reform Department of Veterans Affairs
On June 9, 2014, in response to the Veterans Health Administration scandal, Bernie Sanders introduced the Veterans' Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014. This bill, co-sponsored by Senator John McCain, aimed to reform the Department of Veterans Affairs.
July 31, 2014: House Passes Bill Incorporating Sanders's VA Reform Measures
On July 31, 2014, the House passed a bill that included provisions from Bernie Sanders's Veterans' Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act. This signified a step towards addressing the issues within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
August 7, 2014: President Obama Signs VA Reform Bill into Law
On August 7, 2014, President Obama signed into law the bill incorporating Bernie Sanders's reform measures for the Department of Veterans Affairs. This marked a significant achievement in improving veterans' access to healthcare.
December 2014: Elizabeth Warren's Decision Not to Run
In December 2014, Elizabeth Warren announced that she would not be running for president.
2014: Third Place Ranking in Favorability
In 2014, Bernie Sanders secured the third-place ranking in terms of favorability among politicians.
April 30, 2015: Announcement of Presidential Candidacy
On April 30, 2015, Bernie Sanders publicly declared his intention to seek the Democratic Party's nomination for president, focusing his campaign on addressing income inequality and challenging the influence of billionaires in politics.
May 2015: Limited Number of Democratic Primary Debates
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) faced criticism in May 2015 when it announced only six debates for the Democratic primaries. Critics, including the Sanders campaign, argued that this limited number, along with the scheduling of some debates on weekend nights, disadvantaged less-established candidates like Sanders and favored the perceived frontrunner, Hillary Clinton.
June 2015: Overflow Crowds at Campaign Events
To his surprise, Bernie Sanders's campaign events in June 2015 were met with unexpectedly large and enthusiastic crowds across the country. This indicated a growing level of support for his candidacy and message.
July 1, 2015: Large Campaign Event in Madison, Wisconsin
On July 1, 2015, Bernie Sanders's campaign stop in Madison, Wisconsin drew an estimated 10,000 attendees, the largest crowd for any 2016 presidential candidate up to that point. This highlighted his surging popularity, particularly among young people and progressives.
July 29, 2015: Large-Scale Grassroots Mobilization Through Social Media
On July 29, 2015, Bernie Sanders's online organizing prowess was on full display as a meetup organized through social media platforms drew 100,000 supporters to over 3,500 simultaneous events across the nation.
September 2015: Concerns about Media Coverage of Sanders Campaign
In September 2015, concerns arose among Bernie Sanders' supporters that media outlets, such as The New York Times, were providing less coverage to his campaign compared to other candidates like Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. The Times' ombudsman acknowledged these concerns, noting that the paper's coverage of Sanders' campaign had been scant and sometimes dismissive.
October 2015: Discussing Religion and Belief in God
In October 2015, during an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", Bernie Sanders, when asked about his religious beliefs, described himself as "not particularly religious" and "not actively involved" with organized religion, though he identifies as Jewish. He expressed a belief in God, interpreting it as a connectedness of all beings and life.
November 2015: Georgetown University Speech on Democratic Socialism
In November 2015, Bernie Sanders delivered a speech at Georgetown University outlining his views on democratic socialism, emphasizing its historical context and its relevance to his policy positions. He distinguished his stance from government control of all industries, advocating instead for a system that prioritizes the well-being of the middle class and working families.
November 15, 2015: Response to ISIL Attacks in Paris
Following the November 15, 2015, ISIL attacks in Paris, Bernie Sanders cautioned against Islamophobia, advocating for a measured response to the tragedy. He emphasized the importance of continuing to welcome Syrian refugees, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in the face of terrorism.
November 2015: Peak Approval Rating as Senator
Bernie Sanders reached the pinnacle of his popularity as a senator in November 2015, achieving an 83% approval rating among his constituents. This made him the most popular U.S. senator at the time.
December 4, 2015: Winning "Time" Person of the Year Readers' Poll
On December 4, 2015, Bernie Sanders won the "Time" Person of the Year readers' poll with 10.2% of the vote, although he did not receive the award from the editorial board.
December 2015: Unequal Media Coverage of Sanders Compared to Trump
A December 2015 report revealed that major news networks, including CBS, NBC, and ABC, dedicated significantly more airtime to covering Donald Trump's campaign compared to Bernie Sanders'. This disparity in coverage persisted despite both candidates having similar polling results at the time, raising further concerns about bias in media representation.
2015: Sanders Receives Disproportionate Media Coverage
In 2015, Bernie Sanders received a surprising amount of positive media attention that exceeded his actual standing in the polls. This anomaly further fueled debates about the role of media in shaping public perception during elections.
2015: Participation in Tashlikh Ceremony
In 2015, Bernie Sanders participated in a Tashlikh ceremony, an atonement ritual, with the mayor of Lynchburg. This event took place on the afternoon of Rosh Hashanah.
2015: Senate Budget Committee and Advocacy for Middle Class
In 2015, Bernie Sanders became the ranking minority member on the Senate Budget Committee. He also presented a report advocating for the middle class, proposing measures like raising the minimum wage and increasing Social Security payments.
2015: End of Chairmanship of Veterans' Affairs Committee
Bernie Sanders concluded his term as chair of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee in 2015.
2015: Larry Sanders's Candidacy in UK General Election
Larry Sanders, Bernie Sanders's brother, ran as a Green Party candidate in the 2015 British general election for Oxford West and Abingdon, ultimately finishing fifth.
January 2016: Record-Breaking Small-Dollar Donations
Bernie Sanders's presidential campaign continued its fundraising success, reaching 3.25 million donations by the end of January 2016, raising $20 million in that month alone. This demonstrated the breadth and enthusiasm of his grassroots support.
February 6, 2016: Guest appearance on Saturday Night Live
On February 6, 2016, Bernie Sanders made a guest appearance on Saturday Night Live alongside Larry David, who is his sixth cousin once removed. He played the role of a Polish immigrant on a sinking steamship near the Statue of Liberty.
February 2016: Clinton's Withdrawal from a Debate
In February 2016, despite an agreement for a total of ten debates, Hillary Clinton pulled out of the tenth debate, scheduled shortly before the crucial California primary. Sanders voiced his disappointment, viewing it as a missed opportunity to engage with voters in a pivotal state.
March 2016: Sanders' Speech Ignored on Super Tuesday III
On March 15, 2016, Super Tuesday III, major news networks broadcasted full speeches of candidates like Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, Marco Rubio, and Ted Cruz. However, Bernie Sanders' speech, delivered in Phoenix, Arizona, to a larger crowd than any of the other candidates, was completely ignored by these networks. This omission raised further concerns about the media's potential bias against Sanders.
March 17, 2016: Sanders Expresses Support for Garland's Supreme Court Nomination, But Advocates for More Progressive Judges
On March 17, 2016, Bernie Sanders stated his support for Merrick Garland's nomination to the Supreme Court, although he expressed a preference for more progressive judges. This stance highlighted his commitment to a more liberal judiciary.
March 20, 2016: Receiving Honorary Lushootseed Name
Bernie Sanders received an honorary Lushootseed name, dxĘ·shudiÄŤup, from Deborah Parker on March 20, 2016, in Seattle. The name was given to honor his commitment to Native American issues during his presidential campaign.
April 2016: Visit to the Vatican and meeting with Pope Francis
In April 2016, Bernie Sanders was invited to speak at a Vatican conference on economic and environmental issues. During his visit, he had a brief meeting with Pope Francis.
April 2016: Formation of Brand New Congress
In April 2016, former campaign staffers of Bernie Sanders formed a new political organization called Brand New Congress. The organization focuses on electing congressional representatives who share platforms aligned with Sanders'.
May 2016: Poll Shows Sanders Would Have Defeated Trump
A May 2016 poll conducted by NBC/Wall Street Journal showed Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump in a "dead heat." However, the same poll revealed that if Bernie Sanders were the Democratic nominee, he would have defeated Trump by a significant margin (53% to 39%). This finding further fueled debates about whether Sanders would have been a stronger contender against Trump.
July 12, 2016: Endorsement of Hillary Clinton and Continued Advocacy
On July 12, 2016, Bernie Sanders formally endorsed Hillary Clinton in her general election campaign against Donald Trump. Despite the endorsement, he encouraged his supporters to maintain the momentum of his "political revolution" and push for progressive policies.
July 2016: Leaked DNC Emails and Support for Clinton
In July 2016, leaked emails from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) revealed that the committee leadership had favored Hillary Clinton over Bernie Sanders during the primaries, raising concerns about fairness and impartiality in the process.
July 2016: Leaked DNC Emails Show Bias Against Sanders
In July 2016, leaked emails from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) revealed that some DNC officials favored Hillary Clinton over Bernie Sanders during the primaries. The leaked conversations showed discussions about exploiting Sanders' religious beliefs against him in certain states and questioning his loyalty to the party. This revelation sparked outrage and further fueled accusations of unfair treatment towards the Sanders campaign.
July 2016: Influence on the Democratic Platform
In July 2016, a Slate article recognized the significant influence of Bernie Sanders's campaign on the Democratic platform draft, referring to it as "a monument to his campaign." The article highlighted various campaign issues championed by Sanders that were incorporated into the platform.
August 2016: Formation of Our Revolution
Bernie Sanders established the political organization Our Revolution in August 2016. This organization aims to educate voters, encourage participation in politics, and support progressive candidates in local, state, and national elections.
November 2016: Release of "Our Revolution: A Future to Believe In"
Bernie Sanders' book, "Our Revolution: A Future to Believe In," hit the shelves in November 2016 and quickly climbed to the third spot on The New York Times Best Seller list. The audiobook version later received a Grammy nomination for Best Spoken Word Album, showcasing its impact and resonance with readers and listeners.
2016: Large Crowds at Campaign Rallies
Throughout 2016, Bernie Sanders continued to draw impressive crowds at his campaign rallies, often surpassing those of his rivals. These well-attended events reflected the enthusiasm and energy surrounding his candidacy.
2016: Call for Democratic Party Reform
Following Donald Trump's victory in the 2016 presidential election, Sanders called for significant reforms within the Democratic Party, urging a shift away from corporate ties and towards a more grassroots approach focused on working people, the elderly, and the poor.
2016: Analysis of Media Coverage During the 2016 Election
Studies conducted after the 2016 election revealed that Bernie Sanders received less media coverage than Hillary Clinton, his rival in the Democratic primary. However, the coverage he did receive was largely proportionate to his performance in polls, except in 2015 when he garnered disproportionately positive attention. Notably, Donald Trump overshadowed all other candidates in terms of media exposure, and the Democratic primary received considerably less coverage than the Republican primary.
2016: Describing his Jewish Upbringing
In a 2016 speech, Bernie Sanders described his upbringing as an American Jew, noting his family's limited religious observance primarily focused on Passover seders and his bar mitzvah at the Kingsway Jewish Center in Midwood, Brooklyn.
2016: Joan Mahoney Reflects on Bernie Sanders's Activism
In a 2016 interview, Joan Mahoney, a fellow activist who participated in civil rights demonstrations with Bernie Sanders at the University of Chicago, described him as dedicated and able to collaborate with diverse groups.
2016: Concerns About Russian Interference in Future Elections
In January 2018, Bernie Sanders voiced concerns about Russia's potential interference in future elections, including the 2018 midterms.
2016: Russian Interference in the 2016 U.S. Election
In 2016, Russia interfered in the U.S. presidential election. Bernie Sanders criticized this interference and President Trump's handling of the situation.
2016: Sanders Supports Federal Reserve Transparency Act
In 2016, Bernie Sanders showed his support for increased transparency in the Federal Reserve System by voting in favor of the Federal Reserve Transparency Act. This act included proposals for a reformed audit of the Federal Reserve System.
2016: Sharing Personal Views on Spirituality
In 2016, Bernie Sanders revealed having "very strong religious and spiritual feelings," defining his spirituality as a sense of shared humanity and empathy for those struggling, such as hungry children and homeless veterans.
2016: Bernie Sanders Runs for President (2016)
In 2016, Bernie Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination, finishing second to Hillary Clinton. His campaign garnered significant grassroots support and influenced a leftward shift within the Democratic Party.
2016: Sanders Rejects Mueller Investigation's Conclusion
Following the release of the Mueller investigation's findings, Bernie Sanders rejected the conclusion that Russia had interfered in the 2016 election to help his campaign. He maintained that he had not seen evidence to support this claim and criticized the Clinton campaign for not taking stronger measures to prevent Russian meddling.
2016: Sanders Endorses Clinton, Addresses DNC Convention
Following the primaries, Hillary Clinton became the presumptive Democratic nominee. On July 12, 2016, Bernie Sanders formally endorsed Clinton, pledging to collaborate with the Democratic National Convention to integrate progressive policies. However, he refrained from conceding until the convention. At the convention on July 25, Sanders reiterated his support for Clinton, encountering resistance from some of his supporters who booed and protested. In response, he urged unity, emphasizing the importance of defeating Donald Trump.
2016: Shift in Stance on Gun Control
By 2016, Bernie Sanders' stance on gun control shifted towards stricter measures. He called for increased CDC funding to study gun violence and supported repealing gun manufacturer immunity.
2016: Changes Stance on Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act
By 2016, Bernie Sanders had reevaluated his position on the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. He expressed a shift in his stance and stated his intention to support legislation aimed at repealing the act, indicating a change in his perspective on gun control and corporate accountability.
2016: Running for President as a Democrat
Breaking from his previous strategy, Sanders ran for president in 2016 as a Democrat, stating "Of course I am a Democrat and running for the Democratic nomination."
2016: Top Ranking in Favorability
Bernie Sanders continued his rise in popularity, claiming the top spot for favorability among politicians in both 2015 and 2016.
2016: Rise of "Bernie Sanders' Dank Meme Stash"
During the 2016 Democratic primary, the Facebook group "Bernie Sanders' Dank Meme Stash" gained significant traction. This marked a unique moment in political campaigning where a community was built around a politician through memes.
February 2017: Launch of "The Bernie Sanders Show"
In February 2017, Bernie Sanders embraced the digital realm by launching "The Bernie Sanders Show" on Facebook Live. This platform provided him with a direct channel to engage with the public, discuss important issues, and feature a diverse range of guests.
March 2017: High Favorability Rating in Fox News Poll
A Fox News poll conducted in March 2017 revealed that Bernie Sanders held the highest net favorability rating (+28 points) among prominent politicians, highlighting his broad appeal across party lines.
April 2, 2017: Notable Guests on "The Bernie Sanders Show"
By April 2, 2017, "The Bernie Sanders Show" had already hosted a variety of influential figures, including civil rights activist William Barber, journalist Josh Fox, actress and activist Jane Mayer, and renowned scientist Bill Nye. The show's guest list reflected Sanders' commitment to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives.
April 2017: Highest Favorability Rating in Harvard-Harris Poll
In April 2017, a nationwide Harvard-Harris Poll placed Bernie Sanders at the top of the list for favorability among all political figures included in the survey, further solidifying his standing as a popular and well-regarded politician.
April 2017: Sanders Proposes Raising Minimum Wage for Federal Contract Workers
In April 2017, Bernie Sanders put forth a bill to increase the minimum wage for federal contract workers to $15 per hour, exceeding a previous Democratic proposal of $12. This proposal reflected his ongoing efforts to address income inequality and improve working conditions for low-wage workers.
May 4, 2017: Sanders Predicts Dire Consequences from Affordable Care Act Repeal
On May 4, 2017, following the House vote to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, Bernie Sanders warned that "thousands of Americans would die" due to loss of healthcare access. PolitiFact deemed his statement as "mostly true," underscoring the potential consequences of the repeal.
May 30, 2017: Receiving an Honorary Degree from Brooklyn College
Bernie Sanders received an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Brooklyn College on May 30, 2017.
June 12, 2017: Sanders Opposes Sanctions Bill Due to Concerns Over Iran Nuclear Deal
On June 12, 2017, Bernie Sanders joined Republican Rand Paul in opposing a bill to impose new sanctions on Russia and Iran. While supporting sanctions on Russia, Sanders expressed concern that the bill's sanctions on Iran could jeopardize the Iran nuclear deal.
September 2017: Sanders Introduces Medicare for All Bill, Sparking Debate on Single-Payer Healthcare
In September 2017, Bernie Sanders, along with 15 Senate co-sponsors, introduced the Medicare for All bill, proposing a single-payer healthcare system. The bill, including coverage for vision and dental care, sparked debate, with Republicans criticizing it as "socialized medicine" and Democrats praising its aim for universal coverage.
September 2017: Sanders Lays Out Foreign Policy Plan at Westminster College
In September 2017, Bernie Sanders delivered a speech at Westminster College, outlining his foreign policy plan. He emphasized international collaboration, adherence to international agreements like the Paris Agreement, and promoting human rights. Sanders criticized excessive U.S. military interventionism, support for authoritarian regimes during the Cold War, and Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections.
October 2017: Decision to Run for Reelection as an Independent
In October 2017, despite pressure to run as a Democrat, Sanders announced his decision to seek reelection to the Senate in 2018 as an independent.
November 2017: Sanders Calls for End to "Global Oligarchy" After Paradise Papers Revelations
In November 2017, following the revelations of the Paradise Papers and a report highlighting wealth inequality in the US, Bernie Sanders called for an end to "global oligarchy." He emphasized the need for a fairer and more transparent tax system to address the growing concentration of wealth in the hands of a few.
2017: Drawing Parallels with the UK Labour Party
In 2017, Sanders drew parallels between his own presidential campaign and the Labour Party's performance in the UK general election, praising their progressive manifesto and its impact on young voters and workers. He urged the Democrats to adopt a similarly progressive stance.
2017: Analysis of Sanders and Clinton Voters in 2016 Election
In 2017, Newsweek conducted an analysis that revealed 12% of Bernie Sanders' primary voters supported Donald Trump in the general election. This percentage was lower than the proportion of Clinton supporters in 2008 who voted for John McCain. The analysis provided insights into voter behavior and the potential impact of candidate choice in the 2016 election.
2017: Senate Democratic Outreach Committee Chairmanship and Focus on Middle Class
By 2017, Bernie Sanders had assumed the role of chair of the Senate Democratic Outreach Committee. In this capacity, he continued his efforts to support the middle class, with a particular focus on economic policies.
2017: Sanders Pledges to Defeat "Trump and Trumpism"
In 2017, Bernie Sanders strongly criticized President Trump's policies and promised to defeat "Trump and Trumpism and the Republican right-wing ideology."
2017: Criticism of Republican Use of Reconciliation
While supporting the use of reconciliation for the American Rescue Plan Act, Bernie Sanders had previously criticized Republicans for using the same procedure to pass the 2017 tax cuts.
January 2018: Sanders Responds to Trump's State of the Union
Following President Trump's January 2018 State of the Union address, Bernie Sanders issued an online response, criticizing Trump's honesty, immigration policies, and failure to address Russian election interference.
February 2018: Mueller Investigation Concludes Russian Interference Aided Sanders and Stein
In February 2018, Special Counsel Robert Mueller concluded his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections. The investigation found that Russians disseminated false information to aid both Bernie Sanders and Jill Stein's campaigns while aiming to damage Hillary Clinton's chances. This revelation sparked controversy and ignited further debate about the impact of foreign interference on election outcomes.
April 2018: Growing Acceptance of Sanders's Ideas
An April 2018 opinion piece in The Week suggested that the Democratic Party was gradually acknowledging the validity of Sanders's policy positions. The article pointed to the increasing acceptance of ideas he had championed, such as a national single-payer healthcare system, a $15 minimum wage, and tuition-free college.
May 9, 2018: Sanders Introduces Workplace Democracy Act to Strengthen Workers' Rights
On May 9, 2018, Bernie Sanders introduced the Workplace Democracy Act, aiming to empower workers and promote unionization. The bill proposed measures to facilitate union joining, restrict right-to-work laws and anti-union practices, and curb union-busting tactics.
September 5, 2018: Sanders and Khanna Introduce Stop BEZOS Act to Hold Large Corporations Accountable for Employee Benefits
On September 5, 2018, Bernie Sanders teamed up with Ro Khanna to introduce the Stop BEZOS Act. This legislation aimed to shift the cost of food stamps and Medicaid benefits for employees of large corporations from taxpayers to the corporations themselves.
October 2018: Sanders Gains Support for Bill to End US Support for Saudi-Led Intervention in Yemen Following Khashoggi Assassination
Following the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018, Bernie Sanders's bill to end US support for the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen gained bipartisan support. The assassination, reportedly ordered by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, highlighted the humanitarian crisis caused by the intervention.
November 2018: Launch of Progressive International
In November 2018, the Sanders Institute, in collaboration with economist and activist Yanis Varoufakis, co-founded Progressive International. This global organization brought together progressive activists and organizations with the shared goal of transforming the global order and promoting progressive values on an international scale.
December 2018: Democratic National Committee Announces Debate Schedule
In preparation for the 2020 presidential election, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced in December 2018 a preliminary schedule for twelve official primary debates. These debates were set to commence in June 2019 and continue through the first four months of 2020.
2018: Campaign Event in Stannard
During his 2018 reelection campaign, Bernie Sanders returned to Stannard, Vermont, to hold an event with voters and other candidates.
2018: Running for Reelection to the Senate
Sanders ran for reelection to the Senate in 2018 as an independent, despite pressure to run as a Democrat.
2018: Political Scientist Rachel Bitecofer's Analysis of the 2016 Democratic Primary
In 2018, political scientist Rachel Bitecofer, in her book about the 2016 election, argued that the Democratic primary was effectively decided in terms of delegate count by mid-March 2016. She criticized the media for perpetuating the narrative of a close race between Sanders and Clinton during that period, despite the delegate math favoring Clinton.
2018: Sanders Criticizes Trump Administration's Budget Proposal
In 2018, Bernie Sanders voiced strong opposition to the Trump administration's proposed federal budget. He criticized it as a measure that would primarily benefit the wealthy and exacerbate wealth inequality, while neglecting the needs of working families and vulnerable populations.
2018: Bernie Sanders Re-elected to the Senate (Again)
Bernie Sanders won re-election to the Senate once more in 2018, demonstrating his continued support in Vermont.
2018: Reelection to the U.S. Senate
Bernie Sanders was reelected to the U.S. Senate in 2018, continuing his strategy of running as an independent in the general election after winning the Democratic primary.
2018: Reelected to U.S. Senate for Third Term
Bernie Sanders was re-elected to the U.S. Senate for a third term in 2018, securing a victory with 67% of the vote and reaffirming his position as a prominent figure in American politics.
2018: Allegation of Sexist Remark Surfaces
An allegation surfaced during the 2020 Democratic primary, claiming that Bernie Sanders had privately told Elizabeth Warren in 2018 that he did not believe a woman could defeat Donald Trump in the presidential election. This allegation led to a heated exchange between the two candidates during a CNN debate.
February 2019: House Passes Sanders's War Powers Resolution to End US Involvement in Yemen
In February 2019, the US House of Representatives passed Bernie Sanders's War Powers Resolution, which aimed to cease American involvement in the Saudi-led Yemen intervention. The bill, previously approved by the Senate, reflected growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis and US complicity in the conflict.
February 19, 2019: Sanders Announces 2020 Presidential Bid
On February 19, 2019, Bernie Sanders announced his candidacy for the Democratic Party's 2020 presidential nomination. This time, he affirmed his membership in the Democratic Party to avoid the legal challenges he faced during his 2016 bid.
March 5, 2019: Sanders Signs Democratic Loyalty Pledge
Further solidifying his 2020 presidential bid, Bernie Sanders formally pledged his allegiance to the Democratic Party on March 5, 2019, by signing a "loyalty pledge." This action signified his commitment to running and serving as a Democrat if elected.
March 2019: Signing the Democratic Party "Loyalty Pledge"
In March 2019, Sanders signed a "loyalty pledge" to the Democratic Party, affirming his membership and commitment to serving as a Democrat if elected president. This act added ambiguity to his party affiliation as he had also filed to run as an independent for reelection to the Senate in 2024.
April 6, 2019: Sanders Participates in Fox News Town Hall
On April 6, 2019, Bernie Sanders participated in a Fox News town hall, a move that attracted over 2.55 million viewers and sparked debate due to the Democratic National Committee's decision to exclude Fox from hosting any primary debates. His appearance resulted in a considerable viewership surge for Fox News.
May 1, 2019: Criticism of China Trade Deal and Job Losses
On May 1, 2019, Bernie Sanders reiterated his opposition to the China trade deal, linking it to the loss of over three million manufacturing jobs in the United States. His tweet emphasized his long-held stance against trade agreements that he believes prioritize corporate interests over American workers.
June 2019: Democratic Primary Debates Begin
The first of the Democratic primary debates for the 2020 presidential election took place in June 2019, marking the start of a series of events where candidates would have the opportunity to present their platforms and engage in discussions on key issues.
June 2019: Sanders Leads in Fundraising
By June 2019, Bernie Sanders's 2020 presidential campaign had outpaced all other Democratic candidates in fundraising, according to Federal Election Commission filings. The campaign's success was attributed in part to leftover funds from his 2018 Senate and 2016 presidential runs and a significant number of small-dollar contributions.
August 6, 2019: Sanders Appears on "The Joe Rogan Experience" Podcast
Bernie Sanders's appearance on the widely popular podcast "The Joe Rogan Experience" on August 6, 2019, sparked significant attention and discussion. The interview was praised by some for its pragmatic approach and surprised others due to the platform's reach and Rogan's own political leanings.
August 2019: Media Coverage of Sanders
An analysis conducted by RealClearPolitics between January and August 2019 revealed that Bernie Sanders garnered the third-highest number of mentions across major news outlets such as CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC. This placed him behind Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, who received significantly more media attention during that period.
September 2019: Sanders's Fox News Town Hall Garners Millions of Views Online
By September 2019, the Fox News town hall featuring Bernie Sanders, which had taken place in April of that year, had garnered more than 1.5 million views on YouTube, underscoring the sustained interest in his appearance on the network.
September 2019: Sanders Polls Consistently in Second Place
From May to September 2019, Bernie Sanders consistently secured second place in most national polls for the Democratic presidential primary, according to RealClearPolitics averages. While trailing behind Joe Biden, his consistent performance solidified his position as a top contender in the race.
September 2019: Sanders Campaign Reaches One Million Donors
In a historic feat, Bernie Sanders's 2020 presidential campaign achieved the fastest accumulation of one million individual donors in U.S. history, solidifying his position as a formidable contender in the race.
October 1, 2019: Sanders Campaign Raises Record-Breaking Funds in Third Quarter
On October 1, 2019, Bernie Sanders's campaign announced an unprecedented fundraising haul of $25.3 million during the year's third quarter. This sum, largely composed of an average donation size of $18, marked the most substantial quarterly amount raised by any Democratic candidate.
October 2019: Sanders's Joe Rogan Podcast Appearance Surpasses 10 Million Views
By October 2019, Bernie Sanders's interview on "The Joe Rogan Experience" had amassed over ten million views on YouTube, demonstrating the substantial reach and impact of his appearance on the platform.
December 2019: Release of Health Records After Heart Attack
Three months after suffering a heart attack, Bernie Sanders released letters from three physicians, including the Attending Physician of Congress and two cardiologists, declaring him healthy and recovered from his heart condition.
2019: Support for Green New Deal and Climate Change Action
Throughout 2019, Bernie Sanders consistently advocated for bold action to address climate change, including supporting the Green New Deal legislation. He highlighted the urgency of the issue, deeming it a major threat to national security, and proposed substantial investments in infrastructure, prioritizing energy efficiency, sustainability, and job creation. He joined forces with Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Earl Blumenauer to introduce legislation declaring climate change a national and international emergency.
January 2020: Criticism of Qasem Soleimani Assassination
Bernie Sanders criticized the January 2020 drone assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, characterizing it as a dangerous escalation of tensions that could potentially lead to a costly war. His stance reflected his long-standing belief in diplomacy and international cooperation as opposed to military intervention.
February 2020: Sanders Emerges as Frontrunner in Democratic Primary
In a significant shift in the Democratic presidential primary, Bernie Sanders surged to the forefront of the race in mid-February 2020. Maintaining this leading position into early March, he surpassed Joe Biden in polls, leading the press to declare him the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination.
April 8, 2020: Suspension of 2020 Presidential Campaign
On April 8, 2020, Bernie Sanders announced the suspension of his presidential campaign, but stated his intention to remain on the ballot to accumulate delegates and influence the Democratic Party's platform.
April 2020: Bernie Sanders Concedes to Joe Biden
In April 2020, as the Democratic primary field narrowed, Bernie Sanders conceded the nomination to Joe Biden, who went on to win the presidency.
2020: Viral Memes from Fundraising Video and Twitch Stream
In 2020, a still image from Sanders' fundraising video with the caption "I am once again asking for your financial support" along with a video of Twitch streamer Neekolul lip-syncing "Oki Doki Boomer" while wearing a Bernie 2020 shirt went viral, further solidifying Sanders' presence in meme culture.
2020: CNN Hosts Democratic Debate
In a pivotal event during the 2020 Democratic primary, CNN hosted a debate featuring the remaining six candidates. This debate became notable for a tense exchange between Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren regarding an allegation that Sanders had made to Warren in 2018 about a woman's chances of winning the presidency.
2020: Sanders's 2020 Campaign: No Longer an Underdog
Unlike his 2016 run, Bernie Sanders entered the 2020 presidential race with significant national recognition, leading NPR to describe him as "no longer an underdog." His campaign leveraged the extensive email list from his previous run to quickly mobilize over a million volunteers.
2020: Criticism of AIPAC and Jerusalem Embassy Decision
In 2020, Bernie Sanders publicly criticized the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), labeling it a platform for bigotry and announcing his refusal to attend its conference. He also condemned the Trump administration's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, warning of its potential to derail Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts.
2020: Proposal for Worker Ownership in Corporations
During his 2020 presidential campaign, Bernie Sanders proposed that workers should own a significant portion of stocks in large corporations, advocating for worker representation on boards of directors to promote greater corporate accountability and a more equitable distribution of profits.
2020: Bernie Sanders Runs for President (2020)
Bernie Sanders again sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020. He emerged as a front-runner in a crowded field but ultimately conceded to Joe Biden.
January 6, 2021: Sanders Condemns Capitol Attack, Calls Trump "Worst and Most Dangerous" President
On January 6, 2021, following the attack on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters, Bernie Sanders condemned the attack and called Trump the "worst and most dangerous president in history" for inciting violence.
February 23, 2021: Sanders Opposes Vilsack's Confirmation as Agriculture Secretary
On February 23, 2021, Bernie Sanders became the first Democratic senator to oppose a Biden cabinet nominee, voting against Tom Vilsack for Agriculture Secretary due to concerns about Vilsack's lobbying history and corporate ties.
March 11, 2021: American Rescue Plan Act Signed into Law
On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act, which Bernie Sanders strongly supported, was signed into law by President Biden.
2021: Senate Budget Committee Chairmanship
Bernie Sanders's influence in the Senate grew further in 2021 when he became the chair of the Senate Budget Committee, a powerful position that allowed him to shape national fiscal policies.
2021: Bernie Sanders Chairs the Senate Budget Committee
From 2021 to 2023, Bernie Sanders held a prominent position as chair of the Senate Budget Committee, influencing federal budget discussions.
2021: Sanders Votes to Convict Trump in Second Impeachment Trial
Bernie Sanders voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial in 2021 for inciting the January 6th Capitol attack.
2021: Inauguration Meme and its Viral Spread
An image of Bernie Sanders from Joe Biden's inauguration in 2021, featuring him seated in a folding chair wearing mittens and a jacket, became a viral meme. The image, often captioned or edited into movie scenes, continued the trend of Sanders' image being widely shared and adapted online.
August 2022: Votes for Inflation Reduction Act but Expresses Dissatisfaction
In August 2022, Bernie Sanders voted in favor of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. However, he expressed reservations and characterized it as a limited step forward, indicating his belief that more comprehensive measures were necessary to address the issue of inflation.
2022: Sanders Votes to Confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court
In 2022, Bernie Sanders voted to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson as Joe Biden's nominee to the Supreme Court. This vote was significant as it contributed to the confirmation of the first Black woman to serve on the highest court in the United States.
2022: Sanders on the 2022 Midterm Elections
In 2022, leading up to the midterm elections, Bernie Sanders emphasized the importance of these elections for democracy, abortion rights, and climate change. After the elections, he expressed satisfaction with the Democratic performance.
2022: Advocacy for Unionization and Worker Rights
During 2022, Bernie Sanders intensified his advocacy for unionization, particularly in the context of the United States Innovation and Competition Act. He proposed a measure to ensure companies receiving funding from the bill would not outsource jobs and would allow their employees to unionize. Despite the proposal being voted down, Sanders remained vocal about the importance of strengthening unions, calling for a simplified process for workers to form unions.
January 2023: Bernie Sanders Becomes Chair of the Senate HELP Committee
In January 2023, Bernie Sanders took on the role of chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and became the senior senator from Vermont following Senator Leahy's retirement.
April 2023: Sanders Endorses Biden for 2024 Presidential Election
In April 2023, Bernie Sanders endorsed President Biden for reelection in the 2024 presidential election.
2023: Call for Ceasefire in 2023 Israel–Hamas War
During the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, Bernie Sanders called for a pause in the fighting, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian ceasefire to alleviate the suffering of civilians. He expressed concern over the actions of both sides, condemning Hamas's attacks on civilians while also criticizing Israel's bombing of Gaza.
2023: Reflecting on Bernie Sanders's Civil Rights Activism
Looking back at Bernie Sanders's early activism, it's notable that he was fined $25 (equivalent to $249 in 2023) for resisting arrest during a demonstration against segregated public schools in Chicago.
May 6, 2024: Announces Candidacy for Fourth Senate Term
Responding to public sentiment, as indicated by a poll showing majority support for his re-election bid, Bernie Sanders officially announced his candidacy for a fourth Senate term on May 6, 2024.
2024: Filing to Run for Reelection as an Independent
Sanders filed paperwork to run for reelection to the Senate in 2024 as an independent, creating ambiguity around his party affiliation after he had signed a Democratic Party "loyalty pledge" earlier.
2024: 2024 U.S. Presidential Election
The 2024 U.S. Presidential Election is scheduled for 2024, with Bernie Sanders endorsing incumbent President Biden.