@BernieSanders is a frontrunner for the Democratic nomination. He has millions of dedicated supporters and is raising tens of millions of dollars.
Few people in politics criticized him more harshly than I did in 2016. But I am a realist...
With right-wing extremists running our govt. and with Trump sycophants like #MitchMcConnell, #LindseyGraham, #MikePence, #WilliamBarr shredding our norms and values, #BernieSanders is NOT the problem. In fact, he is out there spreading a progressive message.
We need as many people committed to a strong progressive message as possible. Especially when they inspire millions of young voters. It is VERY tough to set aside the frustration of 2016. But I implore Bernie and Hillary supporters to try to come together.
Sanders has his problems. I've criticized him on guns, enviro justice, and immigration. I've also criticized Hillary Clinton, who I worked for, on drones, fracking and Iraq. We can't expect our candidates to be flawless. But EVERYTHING is on the line in 2020...
There are a number of inspiring Dem candidates in a large and diverse field. Each has weaknesses and strengths. I haven't backed anyone and I don't plan to in the immediate future. But replaying 2016 fights, no matter who does it, harms our 2020 chances.
All I ask my friends and followers is to look FORWARD and think about the catastrophe looming with another Trump term. We simply can't afford it.
And for context, here's a piece I wrote explaining my background and motivations: peterdaou.com/go-left-dems/