Sen. Bernie Sanders is rejecting criticism from Sen. John Fetterman over his involvement in Democratic primary races, stating he will continue campaigning for progressive candidates he believes will confront financial interests and advocate for working people.
Fetterman questioned Sanders' primary endorsements during a CNN interview with Manu Raju on Tuesday, specifically addressing Sanders' support for Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. "Maybe sit a few out," Fetterman said, adding "You're not helping."
Sanders responded to the criticism in a separate CNN interview with Kaitlan Collins, dismissing Fetterman's concerns while making reference to speculation about Fetterman's future with the Democratic Party.
"John, not going to take your advice," Sanders said.
He outlined his campaign plans, stating "We're going to work as hard as we can not only to elect El-Sayed, but Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota and strong congressional candidates across the country who have the guts to start taking on big money and representing workers."
Michigan's Democratic Senate primary occurs Tuesday, with El-Sayed competing against Rep. Haley Stevens for the party's nomination. The winner will face former Rep. Mike Rogers in November's general election to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters.
A recent Emerson College Polling/WLNS/WOODTV survey showed El-Sayed with 54 percent support compared to Stevens' 39 percent, a 15-point advantage.
When asked whether he would support Stevens if she won the primary, Sanders said "I don't know that she'd want me. I'd support her. I want Democrats to control the Senate. I think both Haley and Abdul have made it clear that if the other candidate wins they will be supportive. So will I."