Senator Bernie Sanders walked out of an interview on ABC.
According to Fox News, A question about Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's potential Senate candidacy led to Bernie Sanders ending an ABC interview abruptly.
During a pre-recorded segment for ABC's "This Week" which aired last Sunday, interviewer Jonathan Karl explored the subject of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez possibly running for the Senate, sparking tension.
Senator Sanders, an Independent from Vermont, praised Ocasio-Cortez, calling her "extraordinary" but visibly showed disinterest in discussing speculative "inside the Beltway" topics relating to her potential candidacy.
The conversation turned tense when Sanders dismissed the inquiry about Ocasio-Cortez challenging Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Speculation has been building about Ocasio-Cortez's possible primary challenge following Schumer’s support for a recent government funding bill. Sanders cut the interview short, expressing frustration with the focus of the questions.>
Before walking out, Bernie Sanders stated: "Right now, we have, as I said, just a whole lot of people in the Congress. OK, Jonathan. Thanks," marking his abrupt exit from the interview set.
Well, I ask you – you know, you want to do nonsense, do nonsense. No, I don't want to talk about inside the Beltway stuff. I got 32,000 people.
Despite the heated moment, Bernie Sanders highlighted the significant support both he and Ocasio-Cortez continue to receive, referencing the large crowd of 32,000 at a recent event in Denver.
Just a day before the contentious interview, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez had rallied together on March 21, 2025, at Civic Center Park in Denver, showcasing their popularity and influence.
Earlier in the same week, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez also appeared at a "Fighting Oligarchy" event at Arizona State University. Their joint appearances underline a common political stance against economic inequality and highlight their collaborative efforts within the Democratic Party.
In response to Ocasio-Cortez's future, Representative Ro Khanna spoke on CNN's "State of the Union," praising her capabilities and stating that she would receive significant support if she chose to compete against Schumer. "She's perfectly capable of making the decision," Khanna noted, underscoring Ocasio-Cortez's wide range of options for her political career.
Right now I am very proud that the people of the state of Vermont sent me back to the Senate with 63% of the vote. Right now I'm Vermont's senator. That's what I do, and I'm very happy to do it. I am 83 years of age, so. And I'm tired.
Bernie Sanders reiterated his dedication to his current position and the responsibilities it entails, notwithstanding the tumultuous interview. At 83 years old, he emphasized his contentment with serving as Vermont's senator following his re-election with a significant majority, expressing a robust commitment to his constituents and his legislative duties.
As the dynamics within the Democratic party continue to evolve, the spotlight often falls on figures like Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, whose progressive stances shape much of the party’s discourse.
Regardless of the abrupt interview conclusion, it is clear that their influence stretches well beyond the interview studio, mobilizing thousands and potentially shifting future political alignments.
