Sanders urges focus on affordability
The Vermont senator argues Democrats must prioritize working-class economic needs over extensive investigations into the White House.
By Rebecca Svoboda ·
Sen. Bernie Sanders issued a warning to his party on Sunday, stating that Democrats should not dedicate all their energy to investigating President Donald Trump. Speaking on NBC News' Meet the Press, Sanders argued that while accountability is necessary, the primary mandate for the incoming majority must be addressing affordability for working-class families.
When host Kristen Welker asked if a two-year investigation into Trump administration officials could jeopardize the push to lower prices, Sanders answered, "Yes, I do." He confirmed that Democrats must hold the administration accountable for alleged corruption and unconstitutional actions. However, he stressed that the party "cannot spend all of our time investigating Trump."
Sanders cited specific economic pressures to justify his position. He noted that the United States has the highest rate of childhood poverty among major countries. He added that 20 percent of seniors are surviving on $15,000 a year. He also pointed to fears regarding artificial intelligence and the influence of billionaires on the economy and privacy.
The debate comes as Democrats secure majorities in both the House and Senate following last week's midterm elections. The party campaigned on lowering costs for gas, groceries, housing, and healthcare. They blamed the Trump administration's tariffs and the war in Iran for these price hikes. AAA reported that the national average gas price reached $4.02 per gallon as of Sunday, a nearly $1.00 increase from a year ago.
Several Democratic leaders have already signaled a strong investigative intent. Rep. Robert Garcia, the incoming House Oversight Committee leader, said Democrats are ready to probe Trump's pardons and allies, including Elon Musk and Stephen Miller. Garcia told officials to "lawyer up" and described the group as the "Trump crime family." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who is expected to become Speaker, said Democrats would bring accountability to those he described as having visited unprecedented corruption on the country.
Sanders said the election results reflect a demand for "real change" rather than minor adjustments. He described voters as working long hours and struggling with healthcare and housing costs while the wealthiest Americans thrive. He urged Democrats to stand up to big money and create a government that works for everyone.
The senator also offered a complex assessment of Trump's leadership. He called the president "mentally unbalanced" and "erratic" but acknowledged that Trump is "not stupid" and is "a good politician." Sanders suggested that Democrats might find common ground on issues like a higher minimum wage and guaranteed healthcare, noting that it is "worth the effort" to attempt cooperation.
