The entire country has moved so far to the right we need to understand what the true meaning of these parties are.
Republicans are now Fascists
Democrats are the new Republicans
Socialists are the new Democrats
The entire premise of the US government was made to provide checks and balances. With the overwhelming red tide the Republican party has stormed the country at almost every level. We need a true Socialist to act as a stalwart against the fascist battering ram that is at the gates.
At this point in time, the Democratic brand for the general population has a negative connotation, The Republican brand elicits a nauseating response. Socialism probably has a better reputation among non voters than the failed capitalism that American workers has had to endure.
Sanders being a modern styled European Socialist is exactly what the country needs. It isn't an impediment, it is his greatest strength.
Its the true change that we need.