In the capital of one of the most solidly Republican states in the nation, one of the most progressive voices in politics presented a message not of ideology but of affordability.

“In Vermont, we’re struggling with inadequate wages. That’s what you are facing here,” U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., told a standing-room only crowd of 3,000-plus in the Grand Ballroom at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Saturday evening. "In Vermont, we’re paying some of the highest health care costs in the country. You’ve got a health care crisis here. In Vermont, we can’t afford to send our kids to college. Neither can you."

Photos: Thousands attend Bernie Sanders' 'Fighting Oligarchy' tour stop in Charleston Close +21 +21 +21 +21 +21 Politics

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