This commentary is by Nicole Cyr, a lifelong Vermonter and a graduate student attending the MBA program at Castleton University.
Here we are, days after the inauguration, and the Bernie memes are still going. They are also getting more absurd. Just yesterday I saw a post that featured Bernie’s face on Sharon Stone’s body. S/he was also wearing the mittens!
This is a pressure release for America, and it is centered on Bernie because he is so relatable. As a Vermonter, I can relate to the coat and mittens among the “fancy” crowd. Vermont culture is “blue collar” and apparently many Americans can relate to that.
There has been some feedback that shows how other Americans cannot relate. I think it is a comment on Vermont culture that Bernie is perceived as another disinterested old white man due to his nonverbal communication. Vermont culture embraces standoffishness and dressing down. Some see this as being humble and, to the point, others see this as rude.
The Bernie meme is more than just a senior citizen in mittens. It has transformed beyond his defeat in the presidential race. It is the work ethic that Americans expect of our leaders. His humble outfit highlights the fact that this glamorized event is only the beginning of many debates, discussions, and the implementation of political strategies designed to achieve a certain amount of progress in a certain amount of time.
It highlights how the past four years have exhausted many of us to the point where what should be a pause for celebration is whittled down to a socially distanced event squashed between never-ending administrative processes.
Bernie is a leader of the people, whether or not he is in the presidential seat of power. He champions for climate change and fair pay. He speaks out against tax breaks for the rich. It speaks to the new administration that Bernie is allowed to take center stage, to steal the show. For the past four years, Americans have not been able to openly support liberal ideas or Bernie Sanders without being labeled as extremists and “whiners.”
There are not many “anti-memes” counteracting the fun of this viral political meme. The new president doesn’t seem to care about this meme at all, even though it overshadows his own moment in the spotlight. Both Biden and Harris are using their social media to communicate what they are doing in office and their future goals. Bernie himself is being a good sport and used the opportunity to raise money for charity.
The Bernie meme reflects a turning point in American society and I’m happy to enjoy it while it lasts.
