yeah, this is uncharacteristic of sanders, and consistent with the continuing concern that his campaign is being directed by religionists, particularly muslims. it's this strange string of occurrences that make you wonder who's making decisions behind the scenes, and something that i think is at the ultimate root cause of his inability to gain traction this cycle.

was bernie asked about this?

'cause, it's a pretty egregious tactical error.

and, i'm curious to hear what he has to say about it, when confronted directly - and somebody should do that.

https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2019/09/bernie-sanders-democratic-frontrunner-will-skip-lgbtq-debates/