Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont expressed no regret for his early endorsement of former Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner during an interview on CBS’ Face the Nation. Sanders stated he urged Platner to step down following a sexual assault accusation.
During the interview, host Margaret Brennan questioned Sanders about not acting sooner, implying that earlier action might have benefited Platner’s replacement, former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, by giving him additional campaign time.
Sanders responded firmly, “No, I don’t think so. When we heard the serious allegations, I wanted to discuss them with him. I did. Along with his supporters, I requested he withdraw. He did.”
Brennan inquired further if Sanders felt assured his other endorsed candidates had undergone thorough scrutiny. Addressing the query, Sanders said, “With hundreds of candidates, I can’t confirm full vetting for each one. However, the candidates we’re supporting advocate for the working class.”
Sanders had been an advocate for Platner through various controversies, including offensive social media remarks, a tattoo linked to Nazi imagery, claims of abusive behavior, and reports of explicit communication with women during his marriage. Platner refuted severe misconduct but apologized for some past actions.
In June, when questioned if he was reevaluating his support after reports of inappropriate messaging surfaced, Sanders said simply, “Certainly not.” Platner later exited the race after Sanders and others urged him to leave due to the assault allegation, which Platner denied.
Maine Democrats quickly selected Jackson as the new nominee, voting 566-5 against him. This left Jackson about 100 days to prepare a campaign against Republican Senator Susan Collins, who is vying for a sixth term.
Before the nomination, there were concerns about Jackson’s rapid vetting process, with issues highlighted regarding his abortion stance, temper, workplace conduct, and mortgage history. A Democratic strategist, speaking anonymously, referred to this as a “rocket vetting process.”
This situation unfolds amid broader Democratic debates over progressive factions challenging establishment-supported candidates. Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel cautioned against the potential negative impact of “Bernie Bros” in a Wall Street Journal piece, suggesting disagreements within the party might harm Democratic chances.
In response, Sanders acknowledged a divide within the Democratic Party based on ideology and financial influence. He criticized the establishment for relying on wealthy donors, contrasting it with the progressive movement he claims is winning nationwide.