During a CNN interview with Wolf Blitzer on Wednesday, Bernie Sanders said he would agree to serve in President-elect Joe Biden’s cabinet as Secretary of Labor if given the opportunity.
“If I had a portfolio that allowed me to stand up and fight for working families, would I do it?…Yes, I would,” said Sanders.
Sanders doubled down in saying that he wanted to protect working families who are currently under some of the worst stress that this country has seen in a while.
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“Whether that’s in the Senate, whether that’s in the Biden administration, who knows,” Sanders continued. “Well, let’s see how that unfolds.”
Though Sanders has many passionate fans and supporters, some see him as too radical. He has openly spoken about spearheading progressive legislation in the Senate during Biden’s first term.
Earlier this week, Sanders looked to speak with labor leaders and union chiefs in order to campaign for the top job of Labor secretary, according to CNN.
Though he had some support, many leaders have other favorites for the job. One favorite is Rep. Andy Levin from Michigan. He is also a progressive Democrat who has close ties with union leaders and the Communications Workers of America.
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Sanders has long been fighting to change the minimum wage to $15 and hour, which he believes is the baseline livable wage. His fight for workers to be treated well was a huge part of his platform during both of his recent presidential runs.
Biden has begun announcing his cabinet positions already even though President Donald Trump has not yet conceded. It was announced that Ron Klain will be Biden’s chief of staff.
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