Just because Vermont doesn't require party affiliations for people to vote in primaries, many states DO require it. Some states changed their primary rules because they found members of one party, especially if their party candidate was a shoo-in, flocking to the polls and voting for the "underdog" in the other party's primary. I don't know how many states still allow crossing party lines in primaries, but I wouldn't be surprised if republicans do just that and turn out for Sanders.
Also, as you point out, being a Senator he most likely had to register with the FEC, and declare his affiliation. I don't know the specifics of FEC rules, but he probably will have to declare as a Democrat in order to run as a Democrat for Federal office (even if only in a primary)
Now, the thing that really irks me about him, and I agree with many of his positions, is that for decades he felt the Democratic Party wasn't good enough for him - he didn't want to be a member. And even though he caucuses with Democrats, up until a few weeks ago it appeared that joining the Democratic Party was beneath him. But, now that he suddenly wants to run for President he "wants" to be a Democrat? People who have been loyal and dedicated Democrats for decades are also running for President, why should an "opportunist" get our support just because he finally decided to declare a party affiliation.
Another thing - we see it touted all over this site that "he hasn't changed his positions in 40 years" as though that's a positive quality. Maybe they should be asked about him changing his position on his affiliation?
As for the mechanics of getting on the ballot, each state is different. But in just about every state he's going to have to get a specified number of signatures in order to get on the ballot - signatures from Democrats, just just anyone off the street. Will they all be qualified? Every election cycle we hear about potential candidates being blocked from being on the ballot for a number of reasons - invalid signatures, failure to meet the specific deadlines, etc. I would not be surprised if we hear in some states that he can't appear on the ballot.
Finally, again, I like most of what he has to say and if (a long shot) he becomes the Democratic nominee, I'll vote for him. But as a Democrat, I resent him "using" my party as a vehicle for exposure and a route to MY party's nomination.
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