Photo of Bernie Sanders with Hillary Clinton, by Andrew Harnik/AP

Bernie Sanders admits "there was not the energy" for Democrats in this year's election, compared to Barack Obama's campaign in 2008 and 2012.

Speaking with acclaimed director Spike Lee in a new interview for The Guardian, the Vermont senator called the President's campaign a "historical" one with "extraordinarily high" turnout. "It would be hard to suggest that the people of this country were enthusiastic about the Clinton campaign," said Sanders. 

When asked if he was ever offered the vice presidential slot, Sanders said, "Absolutely not." To which Lee inquired, "Would you have taken it?" "Probably, yes," Sanders confessed. "But that’s—again—looking through the rear-view mirror."

Lee also questioned whether Donald Trump supporters could separate the "racist and sexist comments he made" from his eventual policies. Sanders suggested many had already looked beyond the President-elect's repulsive words and actions, instead focused on their need for a job or economic reprieve while hoping 70-year-old Trump would miraculously change his ways. 

The Spike Lee interview comes as Sen. Senators has been increasingly vocal post-election, positioning himself for greater influence in Congress and calling for substantial changes to the Democratic party.