Bernie Sanders, the longtime U.S. Senator from Vermont and progressive icon, is back in the headlines after a high-profile appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. During the wide-ranging discussion, Rogan directly asked Sanders the question that’s been simmering among political observers: “Will you run for president again in 2028?”
Though Sanders, now 83, didn’t make any formal announcement, his candid and fiery answers suggest that he’s far from politically retired. In fact, his ongoing “Fight Oligarchy Tour” and unfiltered commentary on U.S. domestic and foreign policy hint that a presidential comeback may still be on the table.
Bernie Sanders Grilled by Joe Rogan: Is a 2028 Presidential Comeback
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Age & Vitality | Sanders is 83; Rogan emphasized his mental sharpness. |
| Presidential Bid | Sanders said he’s unsure if Americans would support someone his age. |
| Campaign Reform | Wants to eliminate billionaire-funded campaigns and implement public financing. |
| Israel Aid Policy | Supports pausing U.S. military aid to Israel over Gaza humanitarian issues. |
| Fight Oligarchy Tour | National campaign-style tour focused on systemic corruption. |
Bernie Sanders remains one of the most influential voices in American politics. While a 2028 presidential bid might seem unlikely on paper, his energy, vision, and continued activism suggest he’s not done shaking up the system. Whether he runs or backs another progressive, his presence will loom large in the upcoming election cycle.
A Presidential Spark in 2025?
During the interview, Joe Rogan praised Sanders for his clarity and stamina, saying, “You’re still with it.” Sanders responded honestly, noting, “I am 83 years of age. I’m not sure the American people would be too enthusiastic about an 87-year-old president.”
That honesty is vintage Bernie. But his comments also leave the door cracked open.
While he’s not actively planning a 2028 run, he didn’t rule it out. And given that both President Joe Biden and Donald Trump have campaigned into their 80s, the bar has shifted. Sanders remains a leading progressive voice and still commands a devoted grassroots following.
What Sanders Would Do on Day One
Pressed by Rogan on what he’d do if he took the Oval Office, Sanders didn’t hesitate: “I would sign an executive order to move toward public funding of elections,” he said. “End the billionaires and their super PACs buying our democracy.”
This issue—campaign finance reform—has long been central to Sanders’ platform. He argues that U.S. democracy is being undermined by oligarchs and corporate money, a message that resonates strongly with younger voters and independents.
Example: In 2020, Sanders raised over $100 million from small-dollar donations, with an average contribution of just $27. That model, he says, should be the future of American politics.
A Radical Shift in Foreign Policy?
Another major moment in the interview came when Sanders expressed sharp criticism of U.S. military aid to Israel, citing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza: “You can’t continue to give $10 billion in aid while ignoring what’s happening to Palestinian civilians,” he said.
He supports pausing aid until Israel lifts the blockade on Gaza and allows unrestricted humanitarian access—marking a significant break from traditional bipartisan U.S. foreign policy.
For progressives and foreign policy analysts, this underscores a growing divide between establishment Democrats and the left wing of the party.
The Fight Oligarchy Tour
Sanders isn’t just talking. He’s traveling the country in 2025 on his “Fight Oligarchy Tour”, holding rallies and town halls in swing states like Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania.
The message? Neither major party is doing enough for working-class Americans. “We’re giving people a voice who feel like both parties have sold them out,” he said. He’s bringing attention to issues like wealth inequality, labor rights, healthcare reform, and climate action—all cornerstones of his past presidential campaigns.
Health & Public Transparency
One of the elephants in the room is age. Sanders had a heart attack in 2019, but he bounced back quickly, resumed campaigning, and was re-elected to the Senate in 2024. His doctors declared him fit, and he’s since continued his work without signs of slowing down.
In contrast to some politicians who keep their medical conditions private, Sanders released multiple doctor reports during his previous campaigns. That kind of openness builds trust—even among skeptics.
Could He Really Run Again?
Let’s break it down with a quick reality check:
Pros:
- Strong, enthusiastic base
- Proven fundraising power
- Unique, authentic voice in U.S. politics
- Clear, consistent message
Cons:
- Age will be a top concern
- Democratic bench is growing (Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, AOC, Gavin Newsom)
- May choose to endorse rather than run
If the political climate shifts, and no candidate captures the progressive imagination, Sanders could once again step up as a unifying force.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Bernie Sanders running for president in 2028?
A: No official announcement has been made. He’s expressed skepticism due to his age but hasn’t ruled it out.
Q: What is the “Fight Oligarchy Tour”?
A: A national speaking tour focused on exposing corruption in politics and advocating for working-class Americans.
Q: How is Bernie’s health?
A: After a 2019 heart attack, his doctors declared him healthy. He’s remained active and sharp, as evidenced by his recent media appearances.
Q: What would he do differently as president?
A: He’d push for public election funding, healthcare reform, and pause foreign military aid tied to human rights concerns.
