How does one explain the rise of Bernie Sanders in the Democratic race for President? Simple. He speaks to the young, the disenfranchised, the poor and the disappearing middle class.
Often, unfortunately, his focus is on people who, in many cases, have not been taught history, economics, critical thinking, work ethics, patience or other life skills.
One needs history to understand the what the old folks are talking about when it comes to the birth and development of our country. Economics teach about world markets and the interaction of international trade as well as why other economies failed or are failing. Critical thinking teaches to look beyond the media talking points to find the real, full story. Basic work ethics teach them why it is important to be on time, presentable, rested, and ready to work. Patience teaches many things, not the least of which is to avoid instant gratification, to save for purchases, to prioritize and postpone spending, to learn the joy of waiting and working for something.
These people think that big corporations and their CEOs make too much money but don't give a thought to the incomes of media celebrities. These people are angry about their economic circumstances but do nothing to make even one step forward because they are often enslaved in the welfare system. They buy what the mainstream media is selling.
We have abandoned those people to the welfare state and they are understandably angry. They do not believe that they can ever achieve the American Dream and that the only hope for their future is Socialism. And they are excited about a man in a position to fix things and who taking up their "cause".
They will learn too late that they are wrong. By then it will be too late for us all. We need a "Truth about Socialism/Communism" educational campaign.
John Land
Englewood, FL