Bernie Sanders confirms interest in becoming Biden’s Secretary of Labor

His. Bernie sandersBernie Sanders Senate Democrats re-elect Schumer to lead by acclamation Ocasio-Cortez says Rahm Emanuel would be a ‘divisive choice’ for Biden Cabinet Six people whose election made history MORE (I-Vt.) Said Wednesday that, if asked, he would accept the post of Labor Secretary in the elected presidency Joe bidenJoe BidenFeds Charges Staten Island Man Over Schumer Threat, FBI Pence Cancels Florida Vacation: Report Romney Tears Down at Biden Cabinet MOREadministration of.

“I want to do whatever I can to protect the working families of this country who are under enormous duress right now and whether it’s in the Senate, whether it’s in the Biden administration, who knows? it’s happening, ”Sanders said. during an interview with CNN when asked if he was considering a position at Biden’s cabinet.

“If I had a wallet that allowed me to stand up and fight for working families, would I do it? Yes I would,” Sanders said when pressed to accept a post of Secretary of Labor.

Progressives are pushing for Biden to choose Sanders, who is Caucasian with Senate Democrats, for a Cabinet post as they try to get the incoming administration to adopt policies pushed by the party’s left flank.

Sanders amassed large numbers of fans during his 2016 and 2020 presidential offers, which, though failed, helped him move the Democratic Party further to the left.

CNN reported Tuesday that Sanders is calling union leaders to ask for their support.

But whether Biden ultimately chooses Sanders is unclear, with Rep. Andy LevinAndrew (Andy) LevinMexico emerging as foreign policy challenge for Biden Inslee calls Biden climate plan ‘perfect for now’ OVER NIGHT ENERGY: 20 states sue over Trump’s rule limiting states to block pipeline projects | House Democrats Add ‘Forever Chemicals’ Provisions To Defense Bill After Spiking Big Amendment | Lawmakers Call for Extension to Allow Tribes to Spend More Stimulus Money (D-Mich.) And chairman of the Democratic National Committee Tom perezThomas Edward PerezClinton Vice-President’s Top Five Choices Government Social Programs: Triumph of Hope over Labor ‘waste and mismanagement’ evidence at Workers’ Comp READ MORE also seen as potential suitors. CNN reported that AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka is backing Boston Mayor Marty Walsh for the post.

Choosing Sanders could also cause headaches in the Senate.

The party that will control the chamber next year will be decided by two ballots in Georgia. If the Democrats, who are currently expected to have 48 seats, are able to win both races, they will have a majority because vice president-elect Kamala harrisKamala Harris Senate Republicans urge Trump to move all-in on Georgia Will McConnell flout custom by rejecting cabinet nominees Biden? Pressure rises on California governor to name Harris replacement would be able to break 50-50 ties.

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, would be able to name Sanders’ successor ahead of a special election. While this may give Scott a shot at picking a Republican, he said he plans to pick a “more left-wing type of independent who would obviously do a caucus with the Democrats.”

A Sanders nomination is also likely to face strong opposition from Republicans, suggesting he could be blocked if the GOP retains control of the chamber.