Bernie Sanders announces bid for fourth Senate term

Progressive Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders announced his bid for reelection on Monday, ending months of speculation over whether 82-year-old lawmaker would retire.

The liberal politician, who has been in Congress for more than 40 years, is a stalwart in Democratic politics. Sanders has spent his career fighting for more government-funded healthcare, higher taxes for the elite, finding solutions for climate change, and less military intervention. 

"Today I am announcing my intention to seek another term," Sanders said in an announcement video, claiming he is in a position to "provide the kind of help that Vermonters need in these difficult times."

Sanders said his decision comes as he believes the future of democracy is in question. 

"These are very difficult times for our country and the world," Sanders said. "And, in many ways, this 2024 election is the most consequential election in our lifetimes. Will the United States continue to even function as a democracy, or will we move to an authoritarian form of government?” 

The senator said he does not agree with President Joe Biden on the war in Gaza, and has been critical of the president's handling of the war. But that he did agree with him on many domestic issues.

“We are living in a complicated and difficult political moment,” Sanders told The Associated Press. “I very strongly disagree with Biden in terms of the war in Gaza.”

Sanders' announcement ends speculation on his political future, and the popular leftist is likely to win a fourth term in the Senate. Sanders is considered an Independent, rather than a Democrat, but has consistently voted with the Democratic Party.

Sanders is the second oldest senator, behind Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley, and is the last to announce his reelection bid for 2024.