Socialist Bernie Sanders was a surprise hit at ultra-conservative Liberty University

Bernie was a big hit at Liberty University.

(Image credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

published 14 September 2015

In a speech at Liberty University on Monday morning, Bernie Sanders wasn't shy about admitting that he didn't have much in common with the conservative Christian students in attendance, who are more accustomed to the likes of Ted Cruz. However, the Vermont senator and Democratic presidential candidate argued that they just might have more in common than they realized.

"Let me be very frank. I understand that issues such as abortion and gay marriage are very important to you and that we disagree on those issues. I get that. But let me respectfully suggest that there are other issues out there of enormous consequence to our country and in fact to the entire world that maybe, just maybe, we do not disagree on," Sanders said. "And maybe, just maybe we can try to work together in trying to resolve them." [Bernie Sanders]

Sanders said he had chosen to appear at Liberty because while it may easier to speak to those who agree with us, "it is important for those with different views in our country to engage in civil discourse." Sanders went on to detail two issues that plague Americans, regardless of religious belief: inequality and poverty. And he did highlight a Bible passage: Matthew 7:12, or the Golden Rule. "Do unto others what you would have them do to you," Sanders quoted. "That is the Golden Rule and it is not very complicated."

Sanders' speech was met with several rounds of applause. Watch the full speech here.