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Bernie Sanders: Economy is rigged, wealthy getting richer as working families struggle

From CBS News · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Interview Sources not specified Context piece
  • Senator Bernie Sanders believes the economy is rigged against working families, with the wealthy growing richer while many struggle to afford basic necessities.
  • Sanders expressed concern about the influence of big money in politics, citing the significant spending by super PACs and billionaires in closely contested midterm races.
  • He is campaigning for progressive candidates like Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota, despite acknowledging the challenges posed by being outspent and the tight nature of the races.

Senator Bernie Sanders views the current economic landscape as fundamentally unfair, stating that "people understand that we're living with an economy that is rigged." He highlighted the stark contrast between the struggles of working families, with 60% living "paycheck-to-paycheck" and unable to afford essentials like groceries and healthcare, and the increasing wealth of the richest Americans.

I think what we're seeing in Minnesota, Margaret, in Michigan, and all across this country, is that people understand that we're living with an economy that is rigged.

โ€” Sen. Bernie SandersDiscussing the dynamics of the upcoming midterm elections and the economic concerns of voters.

Speaking on CBS's "Face the Nation," Sanders drew parallels between the midterm races in Minnesota and Michigan, characterizing them as tight contests where progressive candidates face significant opposition. He specifically endorsed Minnesota lieutenant governor Peggy Flanagan, who is running against a more moderate candidate. Sanders lamented the financial disparities in these races, noting that candidates like Flanagan are "outspent seven to one" by super PACs and billionaires who seek to prevent representation for the working class.

60% of our people living paycheck-to-paycheck. People can't afford groceries, housing, healthcare, basic necessities of life. And at the same time, they're seeing the richest people in this country become even richer.

โ€” Sen. Bernie SandersDescribing the economic struggles faced by American working families.

Despite the financial challenges, Sanders indicated he would actively support Flanagan's campaign, emphasizing her grassroots support and commitment to "real change." He also addressed the candidacy of Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong in Wisconsin, whose platform includes free childcare and increased healthcare subsidies. Sanders dismissed concerns about Hong's proposals being "too extreme," stating that raising taxes on the wealthy and ensuring healthcare as a right are "quite reasonable."

People are tired of the status quo politics and establishment policies-they want real change.

โ€” Sen. Bernie SandersExplaining the public's desire for political and economic reform.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CBS News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.