Independent Senator Bernie Sanders addressed the upcoming 2026 midterm elections in an appearance on “Face the Nation,” arguing that polls indicate voters want change. He identified billionaire spending in key races as a major obstacle facing progressive candidates, contending that concentrated wealth from wealthy donors is disadvantaging his political allies.
Sanders also responded to criticism from former Obama official Rahm Emanuel, who had written in the Wall Street Journal that “Bernie Bros” could “spoil” Democratic chances in the midterms. Sanders dismissed this concern, instead highlighting what he described as a “strong division within the Democratic Party,” suggesting internal party tensions rather than progressive activism pose the challenge.
Additionally, Sanders defended his support for Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, saying he does not regret endorsing the candidate despite Platner’s subsequent withdrawal from the race following accusations of sexual assault. Sanders also used the platform to call for a negotiated end to the war in Iran, expanding beyond domestic midterm politics to address foreign policy priorities.
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