Basking in double wins in Alaska and Washington and speaking to thousands, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, D-Vermont, exuded the confidence of a Democratic presidential candidate on the road to victory at the Alliant Energy Center Saturday.
Leading to his speech, a parade of local leaders, including Mayor Paul Soglin, praised Sanders for his work in Congress and his message as a candidate. Attendees said they felt energized by Sanders’ campaign and focus on income inequality.
Sanders’ announcement of his Washington victory mid-speech frenzied an already energetic gathering of mostly young people. Soglin, who shares a similar background in civil disobedience with Sanders, said he shares the candidate’s belief that the government is meant to help give everyone a fair chance at success.
“How about a president who’s spent their whole life fighting for social and economic justice?” Soglin said.
https://twitter.com/Teymoreorless/status/713833472859746304
The youth in the crowd contrasted the attendees at Chelsea Clinton’s recent visit who were predominantly older. During this event, Clinton painted a dire picture for Democrats and progressive values in the coming decade.
Chelsea Clinton touts mother’s broad policy positions in Madison speech
Attendee Joshua Stuart, a 32-year-old from Waukesha, said he has been a Sanders supporter since the announcement of his candidacy. Stuart said this was the first candidate that has motivated him enough to actually attend a political rally.
“His message of taking away corporate power and giving it back to the people resonates with me the most,” Stuart said.
On other issues like healthcare, Stuart said he believes Sanders has the best policy positions, but ultimately he is voting for him because of his economic policies.
Rallygoers at large seemed to be largely in agreement with Stuart, with the crowd responding particularly loudly at the mention of free college tuition and higher taxes on the wealthiest Americans.
Throughout Sanders’ speech, he reiterated his ability to beat opponent Hillary Clinton despite trailing her in delegate count.
“Don’t listen to anyone who says we can’t win,” Sanders said. “We have a path to victory.”
Wisconsin voters will cast their ballots for their presidential nominee on April 5.
