Sander's Republican Appeal

[Jnew28]

After having a few contentious discussions on social media regarding Sander's presidential bid, I noticed a very beneficial sentiment: he appeals to conservatives - even Tea Party conservatives. While I know anecdotal evidence isn't the best for cogent argumentation, it's amazing to see small government proponents who are attracted to his messaging. I suspect that his populist stances are largely responsible. I mean, in a way, Sanders advocates for small government as he opposes intrusive government surveillance; he's anti-corporate; and he condemns excessive military expenditures. That is what makes his candidacy so unique - it reminds of Obama's 08 campaign (more specifically, the purple state appeal), but only more grassroots. And he doesn't enjoy the corporate backing that Obama did.

By the way, people are so inspired by his campaign. Just check out these pieces on Sanders:

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/columnists/iowa-view/caucus/2015/08/26/prophetic-voices-pope-francis-bernie-sanders/32403779/

http://stupidpartymathvmyth.com/1/post/2015/06/bernard-bernie-sanders-the-political-foresight-champion.html

Moreover, his speech on the Iran deal was exceptional:

http://www.c-span.org/video/?c4550355/bernie-sanders-iran-deal

Here's an oldie on Bernie, but it's a goodie: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/21/magazine/21Sanders.t.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

[leftcoastmountains]

1. I hear from a lot of people they are changing

their party so they can vote for Bernie.

[Jnew28]

2. Same here.

I have at least 2-3 conservative friends that are switching party affiliation as well.

[Wilms]

3. I've seen that. n/t

[SoapBox]

4. Interesting!

And welcome to the Bernie Group and DU.

[Jnew28]

5. Thank you! n/t

[eridani]

6. That's what makes him a better candidate in the general election

He'll be able to convince at least a small percentage of teabaggers that they should be angrier at banksters than at non-white people. Among more old-fashioned conservatives, the percentage will be larger. This kind of thing adds up.

Not to mention his very strong appeal to the 63%.

[Jnew28]

7. Great point. n/t