Dan Carlin is one of the most successful podcasters on iTunes, and I believe he should have the opportunity to interview 2016 presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. His topical political podcast "Common Sense" offers a thoughtful, non-partisan approach to structural issues facing the American people. Dan Carlin frequently discusses issues surrounding the corrupting influence of money on our political system, income inequality, and trade policies. Because Dan Carlin and Bernie Sanders have both addressed these issues at length, I believe American voters would benefit tremendously from hearing these two discuss their views for how we reach reform. Dan Carlin has interviewed other leaders fighting for campaign finance reform such as Lawrence Lessig and Cenk Uyger, so it only makes sense that he have the opportunity to question Bernie on his reform strategies.

An issue like money in politics is too important to not discuss, and if Senator Sanders doesn't schedule an interview with Dan Carlin he's missing a huge opportunity to reach out to reform minded individuals from across the political spectrum. I admit I am a Sanders supporter, but to me this interview is a lot more important than getting someone elected. It's about holding politicians accountable and engaging listeners who have all but given up on the political process. I want someone who can ask Bernie the tough questions on how he plans to solve these issues, and whether or not his message resonates with Americans of various political leanings. To be frank, I don't trust main stream news outlets to ask these tough questions, but I do trust Dan Carlin.

Now a little about myself. When I was a senior in high school I decided to make a short film on money in politics and campaign finance reform. This process led me to interviewing figures like Lawrence Lessig and Bernie Sanders. I was amazed by how these individuals were willing to take the time to let a nerdy 17-year old question them on the role of money in politics. Bernie was the only politician who spoke frankly about the issue at hand and didn't mince words on how this issue impacts all other issues people care about.

Years later I became hooked on Dan Carlin's podcasts, and have recommended them to all of my friends and family who want to hear news analysis of a higher quality than what's offered on TV. I know Dan would hit this interview out of the park, and I know Bernie is someone whose willing to sit down and speak with anyone. I hope others feel similarly to me and sign this petition.