#BernieMittens

#BernieMittens exploded on January 20, 2021, when photos of Senator Bernie Sanders at Biden’s inauguration went viral. Sitting alone in a folding chair, arms and legs crossed, wearing a Burton jacket and handmade wool mittens, Sanders looked like a cranky Vermont grandpa who’d rather be anywhere else.

Origins and Context

The mittens were made by Vermont teacher Jen Ellis from repurposed wool and fleece. The photo, taken during the socially-distanced ceremony, captured Sanders’ no-nonsense Vermont energy perfectly. Within hours, the image was photoshopped into every conceivable setting—on the moon, at the Met Gala, in famous paintings.

Cultural Impact

The meme became 2021’s first viral sensation, a moment of levity after a tense transition period. It spawned merchandise (with proceeds to charity), Halloween costumes, and endless parodies. The mittens themselves became cultural icons. Sanders embraced it, selling sweatshirts that raised $1.8 million for charity.

Modern Usage

Resurfaces on inauguration anniversaries or when discussing viral memes. The image remains shorthand for being done with everyone’s nonsense or preferring practical comfort over fashion.