Bernie and Jane Sanders were wed on May 28, 1988 at Burlington’s North Beach, in front of 300 invited guests and the general public enjoying the beautiful beach weather that day. They exchanged vows while surrounded by Jane’s children Heather, Carina and David, and Bernie’s son Levi. City Clerk James Rader, who met Bernie when he was a 19-year-old student at the University of Chicago, performed the marriage ceremony.

During the short twenty minute ceremony, Rader said, “You’ve both been actively involved in the world, in working for social justice throughout your adult lives. I’m confident that your new relationship will only add strength to your commitment; that by your very nature, you will continue to strive to make the world a better place.”

Bernie told the Burlington Free Press^[1], “I’m feeling wonderful, it’s a beautiful day, and it’s a joy to be able to share the day with so many of our friends and family. It’s really lovely.” Added the radiant new Mrs. Sanders, “I’m very happy. That’s all I can say.”