Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said he “could have lived without people standing up and applauding” the pope in an interview with CNN Thursday. (RELATED: Pope Francis Calls For Abolition Of The Death Penalty)
Sanders told host Dana Bash that “of course I was one of those who stood up, but I think it was fine, but mostly we’re there to listen to what a very great man is telling us.” (RELATED: HOT MIC: Woman At Pope Visit Caught Saying She Wants To ‘Throw Her Shoe’)
Dana Bash: You’ve been around here for a few years. Seen a few speeches with presidents, heads of state. Have you ever seen the chamber filled with lawmakers so intently focused?
Bernie Sanders: I think not. I think that’s a good point. You know, I could have lived without people standing up and applauding, by the way. But I think there was great attentiveness and great respect for the pope and I think that’s a good thing.
Bash: Why could you lived without people applauding?
Sanders: Because I didn’t want to…
Bash: Even on things you agree with?
Sanders: Yes, absolutely, of course I was one of those who stood up, but I think it was fine, but mostly we’re there to listen to what a very great man is telling us.