Montpelier, November 28 (RHC)-- United States Senator Bernie Sanders has announced his willingness to run for office in 2020 if he is considered the "best candidate" to beat current U.S. President Donald Trump.

"If it turns out that I am the best candidate to beat Donald Trump, then I will probably run,” said Sanders speaking to the New York Magazine.  The Vermont lawmaker, however, stressed that Trump's defeat was his first priority and pledged to support any other candidate who may have a stronger chance at defeating him. 

"If there’s somebody else who appears who can, for whatever reason, do a better job than me, I’ll work my ass off to elect him or her."  Sanders said: “I don’t wake up in the morning with any burning desire that I have to be president.” 

Sanders, a progressive independent, had enormous success raising about $230 million in mostly small-dollar and online donations during his 2016 presidential bid, easing himself of relying on Democrat Party funds.

The 77-year-old candidate went on to become one of the most prominent contenders in the 2016 Democratic primaries, only to be defeated by former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for the party's nomination.

Having gained much popularity in 2016, many have been expecting the veteran politician's entry into the 2020 elections.   Last week, Sanders signaled his willingness to become a candidate, speaking to civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton on the MSNBC.

"You know, we’re looking at it," he said, adding that "We’ve got some great people out there who are thinking of running," making reference to other probable Democratic candidates.

Former Vice President Joe Biden, former Texas Representative Beto O'Rourke and Senators Elizabeth Warren, Kamala Harris and Cory Booker are some of the most prominent Democratic figures considering to run for office in 2020.

A Politico/Morning Consult presidential primary poll released on November 12 claimed Biden to be the most popular Democratic candidate, winning 23 percent popularity among respondents.

Sanders and O'Rourke gained a 19-percent and 8-percent backing respectively.

A number of Republicans have also voiced willingness to face off with the current Republican president, including Ohio Governor John Kasich and neoconservative analyst and Never Trump Movement supporter Bill Kristol.

The Never Trump Movement was an effort by some Republicans to prevent Trump's presidential nomination in their party. The group intends to pursue its activities for the 2020 presidential election.