This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Published on September 9, 2019, Bernie Sanders' unwavering commitment to healthcare reform has been a cornerstone of his political career.
His journey to 'Medicare for All' began when he visited Canada, where he witnessed firsthand the country's universal healthcare system. 'It was kind of mind blowing to realize that the country 50 miles away from where I live — that people could go to the doctor whenever they wanted and not have to take out their wallet,' he said in an interview.
Mr. Sanders' experience in Canada had a profound impact on his views, and he has consistently advocated for a single-payer system. He has criticized the American healthcare system as 'barbaric' and vowed to 'take on the greed and the corruption of the health care industry.'
Despite skepticism about his views, Mr. Sanders has remained resolute in his commitment to reforming the healthcare system. In 1972, he ran for Senate as a candidate from Vermont's left-wing Liberty Union Party, and he took an uncompromising stance on healthcare, stating, 'There is absolutely no rational reason, in the United States of America today, we could not have full and total free medical care for all.'
Mr. Sanders' concern for healthcare began in Brooklyn, where he grew up. His mother's illness and subsequent medical bills had a lasting impact on him, shaping his views on the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare.
