Sanders utilizes benefits of capitalism, meme to make profit, give nearly $2M to charity

Sen. Bernie Sanders, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, did not shy away from using the goodness of capitalism when he utilized an Inauguration Day meme of himself to make a profit to donate to charity.

During President Biden's inauguration last week, a photograph was taken of Sanders seated and wearing a nondescript coat and a pair of knitted mittens, which many viewers considered a pretty informal look for such an official, nationally televised event.

This picture quickly flooded the internet and became a meme as social media users photoshopped him into different iconic scenes in movies, sporting events and historic world events.

"I was just sitting there trying to keep warm, trying to pay attention to what was going on," Sanders said.

The Vermont Independent capitalized on viral moment by placing the photograph on shirts and selling them for $45. Sanders' team said all of the proceeds will be going to Meals on Wheels.

Over $1.8 million worth of Chairman Sanders Crewneck merchandise has already been sold.

Sanders, who lost to Biden in the 2020 Democratic presidential primaries, is a champion of  healthcare for all, free college, raising the minimum wage and taxes on the country's highest earners.

In 2019, he said he became a millionaire as a result of selling his book.

"If you write a best-selling book, you can be a millionaire, too," he said.