ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. (WCAX) – Seniors told Vermont’s senior senator what their top priorities are for him as he represents them on Capitol Hill.

Sen. Bernie Sanders stopped in St. Johnsbury Tuesday as part of a statewide listening tour where he hears from older Vermonters about the issues they face.

After music and a community meal, he fielded questions.

Top of mind for seniors in the Northeast Kingdom was health care, democracy and climate change. And also the social impact of the pandemic, the economy and artificial intelligence.

Sanders describes this moment as one of the most challenging in American history.

“I know for our parents and grandparents who lived through the Depression and wars, those are tough times. But in its own way, this is a difficult and unsettling time,” said Sanders, I-Vermont.

But Sanders says he’s hopeful because of the level of political participation among young people.

Sanders also met with seniors in Newport, wrapping up his summer tour throughout the state.