Bernie Sanders Tours Epicenter Of Baltimore Riots
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Senator Bernie Sanders is running for president but Tuesday, he was walking in Baltimore.
Alex DeMetrick reports the walk was through the epicenter of last spring's riot.
To win the presidency, Senator Bernie Sanders needs the black vote. It's a strength Democratic rival Hillary Clinton currently enjoys.
Sanders was engulfed by media as he walked through the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood of Baltimore. He was invited to the center of last spring's riot by local ministers.
"This'll be part of what we do with all the candidates, talk to them about issues relevant to the African-American community and see where they stand," said Rev. Willie Wilson.
At a round table, the issues ranged from jobs to housing to education.
"Bottom line is we need to change priorities, not give tax breaks to billionaires but invest in our communities," Sanders said.
Organizers pointed out what those needs are for people who live here.
"I think this is a good thing, you know? To come to the community and show love, I think it's great," said Rashon Wilkins.
"I didn't know who it was at first but then I seen. I hope he do make a change because we need some change in Baltimore for sure," said Quita Chew.
But not everyone was impressed with the visit.
"To me, it was just a promotion type to get the people's attention," said Troy Spencer.
It was certainly attention-getting; whether it will draw votes remains to be seen.
National polls put Sanders and former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley well behind Clinton in the Democratic race for president.
