Who Actually Runs the US Government? – Bernie Sanders

Episode Moments

Who Actually Runs the US Government? – Bernie Sanders

modernwisdom
October 23, 2025
11 Moments

🎯 All Moments (11)

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How the Democratic Party Abandoned the Working Class, According to Bernie Sanders

Bernie Sanders explains the historical shift of the Democratic Party from being the party of the working class to seeking corporate money in the 1970s. He details how this led to supporting trade agreements like NAFTA and failing on key issues, ultimately causing working-class voters to feel abandoned and turn to figures like Donald Trump.

Democratic Party knowledge
23:29
Duration: 1:34

Bernie Sanders on Why Young People Can't Afford Kids

Senator Sanders shares his perspective on declining birth rates, emphasizing the beauty of having children while acknowledging the significant economic barriers faced by young people, particularly the high cost of childcare. This highlights a critical societal challenge in the US.

Birth rates knowledge
40:00
Duration: 0:51

Bernie Sanders' Solution to Money in Politics: Public Funding and Overturning Citizens United

Bernie Sanders outlines a two-part solution to the pervasive influence of money in US politics: overturning the Citizens United Supreme Court decision and implementing public funding for elections. He explains how public funding would level the playing field, citing New York City's system as an example.

campaign finance reform advice
20:40
Duration: 1:13

Bernie Sanders on Democrats' Identity Politics 'Own Goal'

Bernie Sanders discusses whether the Democratic Party's focus on identity politics has been an 'unforced error.' He argues that while fighting for social justice is crucial, it shouldn't overshadow the fight for the working class, suggesting a need for a dual approach rather than an 'either/or' choice.

Political strategy controversy
50:01
Duration: 0:57

Bernie Sanders on Why He's a Democratic Socialist: A Limit to Wealth

Bernie Sanders concisely explains his core philosophy as a democratic socialist: the belief that there should be a limit to how much wealth any one individual can accumulate, regardless of their hard work or brilliance, especially when so many others are struggling.

democratic socialism knowledge
32:54
Duration: 0:43

Are We Really Better Off? The Perception of Progress vs. Reality

This moment reveals a surprising statistic: a majority of people believe life was better 50 years ago, despite incredible technological advancements. It highlights a disconnect between objective progress and subjective well-being, prompting reflection on what truly defines a 'better' life.

Societal perception knowledge
34:33
Duration: 0:38

Demagogues & Identity Politics: Distraction from Real Crises

Bernie Sanders explains how political demagogues exploit identity politics, focusing on small minority groups, to distract the public from pressing issues like massive income inequality, economic struggles, and climate change, thereby preventing a focus on systemic problems.

Political manipulation knowledge
50:58
Duration: 0:58

Bernie Sanders: Elon Musk's Wealth vs. Half of America is 'Insane'

Bernie Sanders highlights a shocking statistic: Elon Musk owns more wealth than the bottom 52% of American households. He argues that this level of income and wealth inequality is 'insane' and a fundamental problem with the current economic system, regardless of individual achievements.

wealth inequality controversy
29:35
Duration: 1:08

The AI Job Apocalypse: Are Robots Taking Our Future?

Bernie Sanders expresses concern about the rapid advancement of AI and robotics, predicting an "incredible loss of decent paying jobs," especially entry-level positions. He questions the societal benefit if efficiency comes at the cost of human employment, highlighting a critical debate for the future.

Future of work controversy
38:32
Duration: 0:36

Bernie Sanders' Progressive Solutions for the AI & Robotics Era

Bernie Sanders outlines his vision for managing the societal impact of AI and robotics, advocating for a reduced work week, guaranteed healthcare, a living minimum wage, and free public education to ensure that technological advancements benefit all people, not just billionaires.

Public policy advice
44:37
Duration: 1:30

Bernie Sanders: Citizens United and Billionaire Influence are Destroying Democracy

Bernie Sanders passionately argues that the corrupt campaign finance system, enabled by the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, allows billionaires like Elon Musk to buy elections and fundamentally undermines American democracy. This clip is valuable for understanding his critique of money in politics.

campaign finance controversy
18:49
Duration: 0:56