America’s Political 2016 Landscape: How One Person CAN Still Really Make a Difference

In Jane Sanders talks Bernie, politics and winning, Emilie Stigliani reports Mrs. Sanders’ recollection of the moment she became convinced Bernie should run.

While she has supported her husband's political ambition throughout their 27-year marriage, she was reluctant to embark on this presidential run.

She said they agonized for weeks about the decision.

"We had been back and forth, back and forth," she said. "I know how ugly politics can be. And our grandchildren, we want to spend some time with them and our kids."

As Jane and Bernie Sanders debated their future on April 18 over breakfast at a South Burlington Denny's, a disabled veteran approached their table to thank the senator for the help his office provided in securing benefits.

Sanders' eyes welled with tears as she recalled what the man said next: "You've changed my life and if you run for president, I think that would be the best thing for the country."

As the man left, she remembered saying to her husband, "Okay, I think you have to do it."

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