Bernie Sanders Says He Supports DNC Chair’s Opponent in Primary

Bernie Sanders is throwing his support behind Tim Canova in his upcoming Democratic primary fight against Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz in Florida, he said Saturday.

The Vermont senator, whose presidential campaign has had conflicts with the DNC during his run for the White House, told CNN’s State of the Union that Canova is more fit to lead Florida’s 23rd congressional district. “Well, clearly, I favor her opponent,” Sanders said. “His views are much closer to mine than as to Wasserman Shultz’s.”

He also said he would boot Wasserman Schultz from the helm of the DNC if he wins the presidency.

Wasserman Schultz said in a statement to CNN that she would stay “neutral” in the Democratic presidential race despite Sanders’ endorsement. “I am so proud to serve the people of Florida’s 23rd district and I am confident that they know that I am an effective fighter and advocate on their behalf in Congress,” Wasserman Schultz said. “Even though Senator Sanders has endorsed my opponent, I remain, as I have been from the beginning, neutral in the presidential Democratic primary. I look forward to working together with him for Democratic victories in the fall.”