Bernie Sanders backs Angie Nixon after her stunning Florida primary upset

Sen. Bernie Sanders has endorsed Florida Democratic Senate nominee Angie Nixon, just two days after she shocked the political world by defeating a well-funded incumbent, Alex Vindman. This move gives Nixon a high-profile progressive ally as she prepares for a tough general election against Republican Sen. Ashley Moody. Sanders described Nixon as proof that "organized people can take on the organized money of the wealthy and powerful — and win," highlighting her backing for Medicare for All, canceling medical debt, and expanded child care and paid family leave.

Interestingly, Nixon won the primary without Sanders' endorsement, despite her extensive experience working on his 2016 presidential campaign and championing his economic policies. This endorsement strengthens Nixon's ties to the national left, but also presents Republicans with another opportunity to frame the fall campaign around the issue of socialism.

However, Nixon still has a challenging path ahead in Florida, a state that has turned decidedly rightward and where Republicans have long held the reins in statewide elections. This news story is still breaking and is subject to updates.