Lauren Elizabeth, Bernie is right. But I'm uncertain that you are listening to your mentor. You would rather continue an all encompassing rant about corporations and establishment.

In an interview with Maureen Down Bernie expressed that he wanted to journey across America and talk to folk -- and to those that don't look like him. I commented on the NYT article in "We Need Bernie -- Whether we Agree with Him or Not" here on MEDIUM.

The Democrats abandoned the small places with the "working folk" that Bernie is referring to. Republicans were happy to fill the void with a relationship that delivered nothing. But a relationship -- even an abusive one -- is often better than none at all.

It will take time, energy and money but in order for Democrats to take back the reins they have to have a presence in these local churches, clubs, business affiliations etc. Stuff (even good stuff) manufactured in Washington and dropped off in "fly over country" doesn't work. It can be even be counterproductive.

Democrats have to return to local politics. Bernie would absolutely agree with this.