One of those times he ran for Mayor of Burlington, Republicans and Democrats were so fed up with his winning that they decided on a single candidate between them. Bernie, underfunded and running as an Independent, beat the one candidate backed by the nation's two largest political parties.

Bernie declined to run for the Senate until Jeffords retired. Jeffords had been elected as a Republican. However, in 2001, he had changed registration to Independent and was caucusing with the Democrats.

Bernie is the longest serving Independent in Congress in US history, which means neither of the two largest political parties have been funding his campaigns or supporting him, but, to the contrary, have run candidates against him. At this point, though, the DSCC has not only stopped recruiting candidates to run against him, but has declared that iit will not support any Democrat who runs against him. That's how big an asset to the Democrat Caucus Bernie has been and also how hard to beat he has been.

Media stories want to treat him almost as some kind of political outlier who doesn't know Schick from Shinola, who is running for most odd senior citizen of Burlington. Don't buy it for a second.

been clear to me for a while. Watching him in the last several months has only increased my appreciation of him in terms of experience, determination, clarity and skill. The patience and tact he applies when with the media is particularly impressive. I couldn't do it. Enthusiasm for him is growing and I can hardly contain my satisfaction after many years without a candidate even close to him in ideals and character.

I think he is really enjoying this more than he expected.

that it's a wonder to watch. I'm cautiously DELIGHTED!




(In a situation like NPR I would have considered breaking someone's jaw, throwing the nearest metal folding chair or just walking out. Halfway kidding. Bernie's tolerance, wisdom and experience are amazing. He is one cool guy. Especially the smile and laugh. Lovin' it!).

Another "label" I can add to my list.

Good post.

Here he comes!!!

I've NEVER been this excited about an election, until now.

this is the 'fall in love' period). Killjoy-

just rambling around in a Vermont back yard, blissfully unaware of Congress' machinations, and unnoticed by either party, are transparently, well, stupid. Accomplish nothing but eye-rolling.

of dysfunction and decline.

on every major issue that once people learn who he is, I have NO DOUBT that he will win.