Bernie’s a uniquely inspiring candidate. I wish there were more candidates with his legislative experience, voting record, and long-time independence from the two-party system, but there aren’t. An independent with an admirable record of integrity joining the Democrats at the best possible moment presents a unique opportunity for change.

Anything that increases visibility is a net positive. Musicians supporting Bernie gets music publications writing about Bernie more, it familiarizes music fans with Bernie as a candidate. Worst case scenario: some Vampire Weekend fans who won’t vote for Bernie came through. At least they saw the rally and heard him speak.

(People in the front row at the Washington Square Park rally) were mostly middle-aged men (members of the Communications Workers of America, who had gone on strike against Verizon), and when we came out they were yelling for ‘Freebird’ and Zeppelin. I loved seeing them though. I’m the son of a New York City union member and a former member of the teacher’s union myself.