Bernie Sanders has returned to Wisconsin, rallying his steadfast supporters to back Joe Biden amid the Democratic Party’s enthusiasm struggles. Despite winning Wisconsin’s Democratic primary eight years ago, Sanders is now working independently, not as a Biden surrogate, to invigorate Democratic voters after Biden’s lackluster debate performance. 

During his visit to the Plumbers and Steamfitters United Association Local 400 in Kaukauna, Sanders met with supporters like Demetri Lafkas, an ecologist from Green Bay, who expressed a preference for Sanders but resignedly backed Biden. Sanders leverages this loyalty to rally support for Biden without directly campaigning with the Biden team, according to USA Today.

Biden’s Wisconsin press secretary, Timothy White, emphasized the president’s excitement about Sanders’ presence, stating that Sanders campaigns for the candidate fighting for working people: Joe Biden. 

Sanders, however, does not shy away from addressing his disagreements with Biden, such as on the issue of Gaza. He underscores Biden’s achievements, like lowering prescription drug costs and advocating for women’s reproductive rights, while warning of the dire consequences of a Trump victory, particularly regarding climate change.

Sanders’ Wisconsin tour includes several union-focused events, reflecting his strong pro-union stance. He highlights Biden’s unprecedented move to join striking United Auto Workers in Detroit as a testament to his commitment to labor rights. 

In his efforts across Wisconsin, Sanders aims to unify and energize the Democratic base, emphasizing the stark contrast between Biden and Trump and the critical stakes of the upcoming election.