Q&A Q&A

Tad Devine, "How the Democrats Screwed Bernie"

Jul 27, 2026 · 1h 3m

Summary

Host Peter Slen interviews Tad Devine, Bernie Sanders’ 2016 chief strategist and author of *How the Democrats Screwed Bernie*. Devine argues the Democratic Party rigged the primary against Sanders through superdelegates, DNC control, and withheld voter files. He discusses his career working for various Democrats, the establishment’s dismissal of Sanders, and the need for open primaries and campaign finance reform to restore democratic integrity.

Topics discussed

Introduction and guest Tad Devine Devine's career in Democratic campaigns 1992 Convention and Clinton relationship Role as consultant and political beliefs Bernie's 2016 announcement and establishment reaction Bernie's grassroots movement and voter connection Economic anxiety and Trump's appeal Open primaries and party coalition building Superdelegates and delegate allocation rules Voter files and fundraising disparities Dark money, PACs, and campaign finance reform Bernie's 2016 TV ads and strategy Bernie's authenticity and Jane Sanders' role Post-campaign tensions and Devine's exit Writing the book and title selection
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