You don’t have to vote for Hillary.

I know you love Bernie, and you respect him. I do too. I’ve admired him since 2011 or 2012, for being the longest-running independent senator. Even though I’ve always disagreed with many of his views, I’ve had respect for how committed he was to his values. And I know that many true Bernie supporters admire him for that same reason.

Which is why it felt so strange to see him go back on his promise to hold out all the way to the convention. Not only did he drop out, but he completely about faced and immediately endorsed Hillary Clinton. He threw the weight of his record as one of the few politicians who seems to be sincere in their desire to advocate their constituents, as one of the few to not give up on a tough political battle simply because he believes it is important.

Part of what made him stand out as a candidate in this election season was his small, donation-funded campaign, and his overall rejection of modern campaign finance practices. This stood in clear opposition to the financing of Clinton’s campaign by mostly large donors and PACs.

She’s the well-spoken, calculating embodiment of the political machine, dealing in lies and favors. He was the passionate, honest, down-to-earth man who truly wants change.

In battles such as these, the machine always wins. Hillary Clinton will be the next president, regardless of whatever happens with the Republicans. She’s wanted it for too long, and she’s too good at the game not to win. Why else do you think she’s faced no charges for being “extremely careless” with highly classified information?

It wasn’t fear of Trump that inspired Bernie to endorse his former rival. No; it was a simple trade of political favors. Bernie had something that Hillary needed--trust and integrity. Hillary had something Bernie needed--the ability to affect the party platform. His public, early endorsement of her was simply one half of that trade taking place.

I assume Sanders rationalized this to himself by saying it’s for the greater good. And I’m sure you as his supporters understand. But it’s hard to watch this deal obviously take place and not feel a little betrayed.

But the thing is, due to the conditions under which this endorsement was drawn, it should carry little weight. Think of it as if Sanders had simply dropped out. You’re free to vote for whoever is second-best to you. Just because he feels obligated to vote for Clinton doesn’t mean you should too. It’s simply not true that a vote for a third party only helps Trump. That’s only a fear tactic.