Bernie Sanders to seek 4th term as Vermont senator

If elected again, he would be 88 by the time he left office.

"Let me thank the people of Vermont from the bottom of my heart," Sanders said in a video posted to X and YouTube, calling the ability to serve in the Senate "the honor of my life."

"As the chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, as part of the Senate Democratic Leadership team, as a senior member of the Veterans Committee, the Budget Committee, and the Environment and Public Works Committee," he added, "I have been and will be if reelected, in a strong position to provide the kind of help that Vermonters need in these difficult times."

The independent senator and self-described democratic socialist went on to highlight some of the things he has accomplished over his time in office, and what he would seek to do if given another term.

While Sanders has been a senator since 2007, his career in government began in 1981, when he was elected mayor of Burlington, Vermont. Following an eight-year stint there, he went on to serve as a representative from 1991 until 2007.

Reaction to Sanders' announcement was mixed. While die-hard supporters celebrated, others called for him to retire and give a younger candidate the chance to rake the reins.

"We need a new generation," one X user wrote. "Boomers are so last century. With respect, sir."

"You are 82, sir," another added. "Stand down and allow somebody much, MUCH younger to serve."

Meanwhile on YouTube, numerous users not only voiced their support for his senate run, but suggested he should be president.