Sen. Bernie Sanders is drawing a clearer line between himself and several positions associated with the more radical wing of the progressive movement, saying that “no serious person” running for office supports defunding the police. His comments came during an appearance on the Pod Save America podcast, where he was asked about Democratic Socialists of America-backed candidates who have supported proposals including abolishing prisons, defunding police departments and eliminating national borders.

The comments prompted questions for Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, who was asked whether Sanders was correct. Omar pointed to Minneapolis and the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, saying the city had been forced to have a deeper conversation about public safety and problems within its police department. She argued that the debate became more complicated once the Minneapolis discussion was turned into a national political issue.

When CNN’s Kaitlan Collins pressed Omar specifically about Sanders’ claim, Omar said she believed he was referring to candidates actually putting forward legislation to defund police departments. “To that regard, I would say that he is right,” she said, adding that she had not seen legislation or ordinances seeking to defund police departments introduced in the United States since 2020.

Sanders also rejected other positions associated with parts of the socialist movement. He said the U.S. should incarcerate fewer people but maintained that dangerous individuals still need to be imprisoned. He also firmly rejected open borders, arguing instead for comprehensive immigration reform. Sanders said conservatives often highlight the most controversial ideas from the left, while maintaining that most serious candidates do not support those positions.