If Bernie isn't a "real" Dem, why does he owe Hillary any allegiance?

[kstewart33]

55. Let's agree that we disagree.

Bernie is officially and formally now a member of the Democratic party. So he must abide by the rules. And one of those rules is endorsing whomever gets the Democratic nomination. Is it written down officially? I don't know, but I do know that in our history when the Democratic party was truly Democratic (e.g., not the Dixiecrats), the losing Democrat opponents endorsed and supported the Democratic nominee.

So if he is a Democrat and we both agree that officially as a registered Democrat he is, then he endorses Clinton and supports her.

But now, he's playing the 'only if she does what I tell her' card. No go. He's not playing by the rules. He wants it both ways. He'll take the party's advantages but then create some advantages of his own even if it greatly damages his party.

I think I know a little something about politics as in my twenties, I was a paid strategist on 2 Congressional campaigns (one is now a senior Republican Senator, a turncoat many years later, but still). I predict that if Bernie does not endorse Clinton, his career in the Senate is over. Yes, he'll be there sitting in chambers, but I'd be surprised if any Democrat will work with him. Even Jeff Merkley who even now is being very careful in how he frames his support. If Hillary loses the election, the payback will be even worse (for example, the life of Ralph Nader after 2000).

What's that tacky saying? Politics ain't beanbag. Well, it's true. And in this case, them's the party rules.