Tuesday was a big night for Bernie Sanders as the Vermont senator scored a big victory in Michigan, a high-delegate state. Just days before voting, Hillary Clinton was leading Sanders in the polls by double digits.
Sanders’ two-point lead was the result of the candidate investing his time and money into campaigning in the state. Tuesday’s upset fuels Sanders’ argument that his campaign should not be written off despite Clinton securing earlier wins in the South.
The victory for the senator is a big one, as it shows he can be competitive even in diverse primary states. Clinton supporters have largely been arguing that Sanders can only perform well in states with primarily white populations.
When asked about his victory in Michigan, Bernie said, “The political revolution that we have been talking about, is strong in every part of the country.” Sanders predicts further success in upcoming states, including those in the West.
Sanders thanked the people of Michigan in a statement after his win, stating, “I am grateful to the people of Michigan for defying the pundits and pollsters and giving us their support.” The senator noted that Tuesday’s victory was critically important, and reminded his supporters that he was down by 30 points just days before the vote.
Although Clinton’s win in Mississippi canceled out Sanders’ victory in delegate counts, the win may breathe new life into the underdog’s campaign. With a win in Michigan under his belt, Sanders may just secure wins in Illinois or Ohio, two states that Clinton supporters are confident she’ll win.
