Part of the reason is that Mr. Sanders sees himself as leading not just a campaign but a movement. Staying in the race gives Mr. Sanders perhaps his highest-profile moment yet to pull the party and Mr. Biden further in his direction. Aides also say Mr. Sanders disdains President Trump and, above all, wants to see the president defeated. Mr. Sanders knows that Mr. Biden cannot win the general election without the backing of his supporters. By staying in the race, Mr. Sanders can prepare them for his exit and give Mr. Biden — not yet the presumptive nominee but inching closer — a chance to make overtures.

Source: New York Times March 11, 2020 22:11 UTC