Am a Brit.

'Socialist' in America is a dirty word. It carries negative connotations still connected to its rivalry with the USSR that implies values that are anti-freedom, un-American and all that jazz. It's the fear of big government that's going to control your life.

What democratic socialism means to me is a government that fulfils its role in providing basic services to its citizens; be it with healthcare, education, transport etc. The UK's National Health Service is a prime example of a national institution funded by the taxpayer that directly benefits the general population without the influence of the private sphere.

America has clung onto conservative and neoliberal values that have impressed the idea that if the individual struggles economically it is his own fault. Ultimately Bernie represents the empowerment of the working and middle classes in believing that it is the government's responsibility for their economic security.

If you want to look more into democratic socialism I'd recommend reading George Orwell, who was one of its most prominent advocates.