Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) said Monday at the Democratic National Convention that he thought Hillary Clinton would make “an outstanding president.”
Sanders took the stage to a crescendo of the same “Bernie!” chants that prevailed throughout most of the speeches given at convention’s opening day, while a sea of “Bernie” signs waved at him from the audience. Camera shots of the crowd even showed some supporters crying as he approached the lectern.
He allowed the chants to continue for several moments, thanking supporters repeatedly before launching into his speech. When he did get to his remarks, Sanders thanked his supporters for voting for his “political revolution” and conceded that he was disappointed in the results of the Democratic nominating process.
“But to all of our supporters, here and around the country, I hope you take enormous pride in the historical accomplishments we have achieved,” Sanders said.
He paused multiple times to let the crowd cheer for him and said he looked forward to the convention’s roll call vote on Tuesday.
Eventually, Sanders said Clinton “must become the next President of the United States.” According to his prepared remarks, Sanders was to state that he was next going to say, “The choice is not even close.” But he only uttered, “the choice,” before pausing to let the crowd cheer. Sanders didn’t finish the line from the prepared remarks before beginning to speak again.
He went on to say that he thought Clinton would work to help families in poverty, appoint Supreme Court justices who would overturn Citizens United and help alleviate the cost of higher education.
Sanders said that it was “no secret” that he and Clinton disagree on a number of topics, but emphasized that he had worked with the Clinton campaign to produce “by far the most progressive platform in the history of the Democratic Party.”
“Hillary Clinton will make an outstanding president and I am proud to stand with her here tonight,” Sanders said.
Really wish he would have seconded Sarah Silverman’s remark as well…
But, eh… I’ll take it
Oh My GOD there is it, the Laura Ingraham salute! You guys were right about Bernie, I was wrong.
Good for Senator Sanders. He has proven himself far more gracious in defeat than, say, Ted Cruz, and he needs to tell his followers to lay off. The real enemy is Trump and his army of bigots and Know-Nothings. One battle at a time, please.
Overall … On this first night … I am pleased … giddy actually —
What powerful, passionate speakers … and the best is yet to come ! ----
Question for TPMers:
Re: Senator Sanders - Is all forgiven?
My answer: Almost all. Completely wiping the slate will take some time campaigning in college towns.