Sanders reminded the Chicago crowd where the nation was when former President Donald Trump when left office.
"We were in the midst of the worst public health crisis in 100 years and the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. 3000 Americans were dying every day and our hospitals were overwhelmed with COVID patients all across the country," Sanders said.
He praised President Joe Biden's ability for the U.S. passing the American rescue plan, providing $1,400 for every man, woman and child in the working class, among other accomplishments.
"Now I say all of this not to relive that difficult moment, but to make one simple point, when the political will is there government can effectively deliver for the people of our country," he added.
Watch Sen. Bernie Sanders' full DNC convention speech here
What to know about Bernie Sanders
Who is he? Sanders is a senior U.S. senator from Vermont serving his third term after winning reelection in 2018.
What role he plays: Sanders is a guest speaker at the Democratic National Convention.
Key quote: "This is not a radical agenda. But let me tell you what a radical agenda is: And that is Trump's Project 2025."
Sanders calls Harris’ economic plan an 'excellent start'
Speaking with USA TODAY on Day 1 of DNC, Sanders said he was "impressed" by Harris' economic plan, which includes easing rent increases, capping prescription drug prices.
Announced last week, the plan seeks to end grocery price gouging, boost first-time homebuyers and bolster the child tax credit.
However, Sanders said he looks forward to seeing the details fleshed out adding that "we still have a long way to go, but I think it's an excellent start." He said Harris' plan to add 3 million housing units is crucial in addressing the house shortage crisis.
"I hope that the day will come soon under a President Harris, where we're not going to pay any more than other countries, which means lowering prescription drug costs in half," Sanders told USA TODAY on Monday.
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) takes the stage on the Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, Illinois on August 20, 2024. Elizabeth Frantz / REUTERS
Sanders critical of Biden's support to Israel
Sanders has not always supported everything the Biden-Harris administration since its term began in 2021. While considering himself a strong supporter of what the administration has done on domestic disputes, Sanders said is not onboard with the president's support to Israel.
"On this issue, I think the president is wrong. Israel had a right to defend itself against this horrible Hamas terrorist attack, but they did not have the right to go to war against the entire Palestinian people, killing 30,000, mostly women, children and elderly," he said.
The U.S. has supported Israel under Biden's admiration as it has prosecuted a war in the Gaza Strip since militant group Hamas' Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel.
"And now creating a situation where tens and tens of thousands of children face starvation because Israel's not letting humanitarian aid come through. So I believe that we should not be giving another nickel to Netanyahu's right-wing extremist government," Sanders added.
When and where is the DNC?
The convention will air live on its website , from the United Center in Chicago between 6:15 p.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern (5:15 p.m. to 10 p.m Central) on Monday, and 7 p.m to 11 p.m. Eastern (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central) the other days.
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