Hillary and Sanders Fiercely Attack: "No One Likes You, But If You Become the Presidential Candidate, They Will Support You"

Hillary "Nobody Likes Sanders"
Sanders Urges Calm Response from Supporters, Avoids Direct Retaliation
Hillary "Trump's Departure Is Top Priority... Will Support Any Presidential Candidate Once Selected"

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton harshly criticized U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, whom she faced in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to U.S. media on the 21st (local time), former Secretary Clinton said in a documentary appearance, "No one likes Sanders." Clinton stated, "Senator Sanders has been in Congress for a long time, but there is only one senator who supports him," adding, "No one wants to work with him."

In the previous presidential election, Clinton and Senator Sanders had a close contest for the Democratic presidential nomination. After losing the election, Hillary criticized Senator Sanders for ruining the election.

Clinton also criticized not only Senator Sanders, who is running again in this year's presidential election, but also his campaign and supporters. She pointed out, "The problem is not only Senator Sanders but also his surrounding campaign," and added, "Sanders' online supporters launched relentless attacks against competitors, especially female candidates."

Clinton also mentioned, "The person who will become president should lead all of us together, so voters must be cautious in their choice."

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

Senator Sanders' side has refrained from directly responding to Clinton's criticism. Senator Sanders said in a statement, "Now is the time to focus on impeaching President Trump," and "We will defeat President Trump together." Additionally, Sanders' close aides urged supporters to refrain from attacking President Trump.

After Clinton's remarks became known, Senator Sanders met with reporters and joked, "On good days, even my wife likes me."

Following Clinton's remarks, there was controversy over whether she would support Senator Sanders if he were chosen as the Democratic presidential nominee. Some media reported that Clinton would not support Sanders even if he became the nominee. Because of this, the progressive wing of the Democratic Party issued a statement saying it is right to support whoever becomes the presidential candidate against Clinton.

Regarding this, Clinton said, "I think many people want to know my sincere intentions without personal interest," and added, "The biggest priority for the United States and this world is to retire President Trump. I will do anything for the Democratic presidential candidate." This means she would support Senator Sanders if he is chosen as the presidential nominee.