Props to Sen. Bernie Sanders for flaking on the protestors in D.C.’s streets. And good for him, for skipping out on House Democrats’ inaugural boycott. But Bernie, bro, that video you posted was bleak.
Traditionally, Inauguration Day stands as an opportunity to celebrate the peaceful transition of power. If just for a moment, constitutional principles normally eclipse partisan politics. Instead, the Vermont senator marked the occasion by calling for nonstop political warfare.
In a quick 40-second clip, Sanders rallied his supporters, urging them “to keep our eyes on the prize — and that prize is that we will continue fighting for a government that represents all of us.” Before heading over to the capital, he promised that “we will go forward in the fight for economic, social, environmental and racial justice.”
More than messaging, the viral video gives a snapshot of what the next four years will look like. Just like the GOP is Trump’s party now, the Democrats are the party of Sanders. If they follow the lead of the democrat socialist, that party doesn’t plan on following the “malice toward none” prescription.
Trump should take notice. His predecessor might have enjoyed a honeymoon, a short respite from the bickering the dominates political discourse. But if Bernie’s posturing is any indication, Trump won’t enjoy the same courtesy.
The next four years will see a new partisanship, one without even forced posturing and pretend politeness. Thanks to Bernie, it’s going to be brutal.
Philip Wegmann is a commentary writer for the Washington Examiner.
