Jake Quinn

GUEST COLUMNIST

It’s clear that Americans of all stripes are frustrated with politics as usual. Washington is gridlocked. Our economy is rigged against ordinary Americans. Politicians can be bought and sold. Something is obviously wrong.

Sen. Bernie Sanders is the only candidate in either party with a long, consistent track record of independence. He is a consensus builder who knows how Washington works. He’s not been corrupted by the power and money of politics. He’s in the race because he has the passion and vision that America needs.

And Americans are responding in record numbers.

More than a million people have donated to his campaign already, a milestone unmatched by any other first-time White House candidate. He’s had record-breaking crowds at events across the country. In Iowa alone, more than 35,000 people have attended Sanders-sponsored events.

Events throughout North Carolina have been packed with people who are passionate about getting Sanders elected. Many of the attendees had never volunteered before. They have been drawn to a Sanders campaign brimming with enthusiasm. And they are already working hard.

I am a member of the Democratic National Committee, and I believe a Democratic presidency is our best hope for fixing the problems we face. We’ve seen, however, that the president cannot do it alone. He or she will also need a Congress that works. Democrats must choose a presidential nominee that will help other Democrats get elected. We must select a nominee who will inspire people, not only to vote, but also to make phone calls and knock on doors.

Sanders is the only candidate leading a people-powered campaign to revolutionize politics. It offers a special opportunity to the Democratic Party to broaden its appeal.

We need to shake things up in the District of Columbia and Raleigh, if we want to get our nation and our state back on track. Serious changes need to be made and the time is now. Sanders has the experience, the vision and the energy to move this country and our state forward.

That’s why I am proud to endorse Sen. Bernie Sanders. I am “feeling the Bern,” and ask you to join me in helping him get elected as the next president of the United States.

Jake Quinn is a Democratic National Committee member and “super delegate” who lives in Asheville.