He’s running for president — of Sweden.
Hillary Clinton’s only primary challenger is a self-described Democratic socialist who’s not afraid to say America should be more like Europe.
In his first interview on ABC’s “This Week” since declaring his candidacy, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said the US should operate more like the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden.
“I can hear the Republican attack ad right now: ‘He wants America to look more like Scandinavia,’” countered ABC host George Stephanopoulos.
But Sanders said that’s exactly what he wants.
“That’s right. That’s right. And what’s wrong with that?” Sanders said.
It’s a far cry from 2012 when Mitt Romney and his GOP counterparts would try to paint President Obama as a socialist who wants to turn the US into Europe with bigger government and higher taxes.
The critique put Obama on defense, but Sanders’ embrace of the label makes him an unusual politician running a unique race.
Sanders wants health care for all, free college education, expanded retirement benefits and better child care — similar to what high-taxed Europeans enjoy.
“What’s wrong when you have more income and wealth equality? What’s wrong when they have a stronger middle class in many ways than we do, higher minimum wage than we do, and they are stronger on the environment?” he asked.
Sanders, a Brooklyn native, announced he’s running for president in a 10-minute news conference Thursday outside the Capitol before running to work.
“We don’t have an endless amount of time, I’ve got to get back,” the longest-serving independent in Congress said in kicking off the news conference.
Sanders said he’ll draw sharp contrasts with Clinton on climate change; the Keystone Pipeline, which he opposes; her vote in favor of the Iraq War; and trade agreements that he says cost US jobs. The questionable donations to the Clinton Foundation are also “fair game.”
“I think I’m the only candidate who’s prepared to take on the billionaire class, which now controls our economy, and increasingly controls the political life of this country,” Sanders said.
“We need a political revolution in this country involving millions of people who are prepared to stand up and say, enough is enough, and I want to help lead that effort.”
His entry into the race means Clinton can avoid the appearance of a coronation.
Clinton tweeted support for Sanders this week: “I agree with Bernie. Focus must be on helping America’s middle class. GOP would hold them back. I welcome him to the race.”