General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Sanders to run as a Democrat -- but not accept nomination (2018 Senate) [View all]Jim Lane
(11,175 posts)A former Hillary Clinton staffer announced his intention to move to Vermont and run against Bernie in the Democratic primary. My guess is that he was joking, though.
As to the Vermonters who've announced, I don't know if any will have the inclination to go through with it and the ability to get enough signatures. What's clear is that, as you say, any challenger(s) getting enough signatures and paying whatever filing fee there may be WILL be on the Democratic primary ballot. The Vermont Democratic Party will not and cannot disallow anyone from running.
It's also clear that it's hard for any candidate for any office in any state to attract funding when that candidate looks like a sure loser. That will be the big problem for anyone running against Bernie in the Democratic primary.