The Bernie or Bust movement is for quitters

When I hear about the millennial generation, in extensive Facebook posts, newsrooms or otherwise, the term is used with negative connotation. But in one area of the public sphere, millennials are undoubtedly gaining ground: as an active constituency.

Specifically, political activism in the Democratic race has increased this season. According to a Time magazine article, over 400,000 voters age 18 to 29 casted their votes in the New York primary in February, surpassing previous voter turnout numbers.

Social security, education, economic policy, healthcare and other facets of domestic policy have been the focal points of the Democratic race. Young voters have taken notice. Now that the millennial vote is involved, however, a new threat has emerged to voter turnout: Bernie or Bust.

A sizeable portion of Bernie Sanders advocates are adamant on their position supporting the potential nominee, declaring a “Bernie or Bust” movement. Simply put, it’s a refusal to support Hillary Clinton and, for some voters, it’s a refusal to participate in the general election this November whatsoever.

It’s a quitter’s mentality.

Looking at delegate count alone, it is apparent Hillary is in the lead as the most eligible contender at the Democratic National Convention this July. A serious of major multi-state landslide wins would be necessary for Sanders to gain the attention of coveted superdelegates. Imagine a repeat of the five point Indiana victory in tomorrow’s Kentucky and Oregon primaries, and a prediction-defying phenomenon in the California primary, where Sanders lags behind Clinton in polls. In this situation, Sanders would gain delegate momentum. However, it is statistically unlikely. Give it up, Bernie supporters?

Let’s be real: there’s no crying in baseball, and in this situation, the same principle holds true.

So much political momentum has been developed in this pre-election season that it would be a shame to waste. Not even just a shame, but counterintuitive to Sanders’s entire platform. He speaks of serious reform across the domestic spectrum, which is not accomplished overnight. It’s a multifaceted, extensive process requiring co-operation of voters and representatives alike. Quitting is not an option.

Sanders has publicly addressed that he will support Clinton if she is to secure the Democratic nomination this summer, while subsequently he remains firm on his economic and social positions. The ability to form the Democratic Party’s platform, if not represent as the nominee, is not lost for Sanders.

To say one man is the sole proponent for change diminishes the value and efforts of millions of voters. If anything can be taken from Sanders’s campaign and willingness to diplomatically stand by Clinton, it is that politics is not a gridlock, but an active forum. Bernie supporters can still push for social and economic reform policies on another politician’s agenda.

To be clear, in no way is this an endorsement for Hillary Clinton. It’s an endorsement for having a political voice, for being informed and actively making a decision. It’s not just that “fulfilling your civic duty” spiel you’ve heard time and time again. Refusal to cast a ballot in November if Bernie does not receive the nomination is sorely accepting defeat, not a gracious choice.

Here’s a thought: let’s hold politicians accountable to their promises, and direct our representatives towards beneficial reform for the people. If presidential hopefuls gain voter support by appealing to prominent issues, then legislation begins with voters. Bernie didn’t serendipitously create a platform that appeals to millions of voters, it was a strategic effort of combining pressing issues for the working and middle classes into a plan of action. The policy proposals do not disappear if Bernie loses the nomination. Leave the man, take the message.

What’s really important here is the prominent representation of policies and legislation that reflects the people’s best interest.

Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what politics is all about?