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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