Bernie Sanders has presented a policy agenda that is more progressive compared to Kamala Harris’ proposals. This contrast might actually benefit Harris.

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During his primetime speech at the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday night, Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont emphasized his own policy goals, even those that differ from Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign agenda. Sanders reiterated his long-standing advocacy for a Medicare for All system, asserting that healthcare should be a human right, not a privilege. He acknowledged that Harris and President Biden do not share his stance on universal healthcare, but he firmly believes his position is correct.

In his DNC address, Sanders criticized the influence of wealthy donors in politics, despite the significant financial support Harris receives from billionaire contributors. He argued that billionaires should not be able to buy elections, including primary contests. Sanders also called for action against major industries like pharmaceuticals, oil, agriculture, and technology, which he claims hinder progress for working people due to their greed.

By focusing on universal healthcare, campaign finance reform, and economic inequality, Sanders’ speech diverged from the typical convention practice of praising the party’s nominee. Although he briefly supported Harris’ campaign against former President Donald Trump, his positions highlighted the differences between them.

This wasn’t the first time Sanders showed lukewarm support for Harris. In a Monday interview with Politico, he described her as a great campaigner but noted they are not close friends. Sanders also expressed his belief that President Biden could have pursued a second term, a view not widely shared among Democratic leaders. Despite Biden’s poor debate performance, Sanders remained loyal to him.

Sanders’ decision to highlight his differences with Harris might actually benefit her by appealing to moderate, undecided voters. An August poll by the New York Times and Siena College found that 45% of likely voters in battleground states viewed Harris as too liberal or progressive. This perception is partly due to Trump’s portrayal of Harris as a radical progressive, aimed at deterring moderate voters.

However, Sanders’ tepid support for Harris counters these Republican attacks. As a Democratic Socialist and one of the most left-leaning lawmakers, Sanders serves as a reminder to centrist voters that there are Democrats more radical than Harris. This message may already be resonating with the electorate. Austin Davis, a 29-year-old self-identified communist from Chicago, told NBC News that he does not see Harris as a communist, emphasizing that anyone with a basic understanding of the term would agree.