> A self-described socialist[11][12] and democratic socialist,[17] Sanders favors policies similar to those of social democratic parties in Europe, particularly those instituted by the Nordic countries.[21] He is a leading progressive voice on issues such as income inequality,[14] universal healthcare, parental leave, climate change,[22] LGBT rights, and campaign finance reform.[23] He is also outspoken on civil rights and civil liberties, and has been particularly critical of mass surveillance policies such as the USA PATRIOT Act,[24] the NSA surveillance programs,[25] and racial discrimin…