It’s no question that Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders has a cult-like following, especially among our generation. This past year, as a student at the University of Vermont, I am bombarded with diehard fans' Bernie propaganda—cool T-shirts, giant posters, and impressive Photoshop jobs of the senator’s face on Jesus’s body. Don’t get me wrong--I’m feeling the Bern/Sand and want free tuition as much as the next millennial, but realistically, it’s looking like Vermont’s hero isn’t going to pick up the nomination come November. This is disheartening to supporters, especially since Bernie is the first candidate many of us have felt motivated to go out and vote for. However, even if his name isn’t on the ballot this fall, I am urging Bernie supporters to VOTE!
Yes, our political system has flaws. Yes, it’s unfair that Bernie’s ideas are seen as radical instead of common sense. The fact is, it’s a miracle Senator Sanders has made it this far, especially without corporate support or some scandalous secret—and it’s sad that this has become the norm. But refusing to vote will not help anyone’s cause. Not only is it our duty as citizens 18 years of age or older, but it is also important because a vote for Hillary is a vote against Trump.
In an ideal world, Sanders would become President. Wall Street would be converted into a peace garden. Children could frolic in the meadows, not worrying one bit about student loans. It would rain green tea and I would be able to find a pair of leggings that fit me. This all sounds amazing, but even if Bernie could get into office, this simply wouldn’t be the situation. The President can’t fix everything—they need the support of Congress to make changes. Bernie’s ideas are considered so far left that a mostly Republican Congress wouldn’t be likely to back them up.
So far, Clinton is the frontrunner for the Democratic Party. She’s had experience in office, as the First Lady, senator of New York, and Secretary of State. She’s considered more moderate than liberal, a quality that means less support from young people but more support from Congress. She doesn’t have the greatest social media presence, and has been ridiculed through Internet memes, but she is a qualified politician. Plus, Sanders supporters love progressiveness—and a woman in office would be pretty cool. Think of all the sharp pantsuits!
No matter what happens, nobody will forget Bernie Sanders’ incredible campaign. Once you catch the fever, you never stop feeling the Bern. But, what I’m saying is this: it’s not the end of the world if Hillary Clinton ends up winning the nomination. So, please, go out and vote in November, whether it ends up being Vermont’s Jesus or the former First Lady on that ballot. It’s better than the Cheetoh dust-orange, racist alternative.
