Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., addressed the possibility of a 2028 presidential run during an interview on CNN’s ‘State of the Union.’ The senator, who is 84 years old, dismissed the idea of another presidential bid, stating that his focus is on advancing the working-class agenda and fighting for a decent standard of living for all Americans. “Let’s not worry about that,” Sanders told host Dana Bash. “I am going to be 84 years of age next month, as a matter of fact. I think that speaks for itself.”
Sanders emphasized that his primary goal is to educate, organize, and empower working-class people with a clear agenda. He argued that with a ‘very hungry, energized base with an idea of what they want,’ significant change is possible. “What is more important is that we provide a decent standard of living for all our people,” he said. In response to a suggestion that without leadership, the movement might not evoke change, Sanders maintained that strong grassroots movements would naturally bring about the right kind of leadership.
During the interview, Sanders also reiterated his stance on current political dynamics, including his recent acknowledgment of two things Donald Trump has done right. This statement underscores his broader strategy of maintaining focus on the movement rather than endorsing specific candidates. The senator has been actively touring the country as part of his ‘Fighting Oligarchy Tour,’ visiting locations nationwide to engage with supporters and promote his policy agenda. Most recently, he stopped in Asheville, North Carolina, where the venue for his event was expanded from a capacity of 2,400 to approximately 7,200 to accommodate the growing interest in his message.
This focus on grassroots mobilization reflects Sanders’ long-standing commitment to the Democratic Party’s progressive base, while also highlighting the challenges of sustaining momentum in a political landscape increasingly dominated by corporate interests. As the 2028 election cycle draws closer, the senator’s stance on future presidential bids will likely remain a topic of discussion among political analysts and supporters alike.