Overview of the Tour

Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has embarked on a nationwide initiative dubbed the “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, aimed at opposing President Donald Trump’s policies. Sanders, alongside Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York, is addressing the implications of wealth concentration in politics and mobilizing supporters across various political landscapes.

Core Message Against Oligarchy

During a recent interview on ABC’s “This Week”, Sanders emphasized the urgency of preventing a government run by a small group of billionaires. He asserted, “The American people are not going to sit idly by and allow Trump to establish an oligarchic form of government where Musk and other billionaires are running our government.”

He elaborated on the threat of authoritarianism, highlighting the constitutional values that could be undermined if such power dynamics were allowed to persist. “We’re not going to sit back and allow him to form an authoritarian form of society,” Sanders stated.

Attendance and Impact of the Tour

The tour has garnered significant attention, attracting diverse audiences, including substantive crowds in both traditionally conservative and liberal areas. The Denver rally was particularly noteworthy, drawing approximately 32,000 attendees—the largest audience Sanders has seen in his political career, surpassing turnout from his previous presidential campaigns.

Concerns Over Government Influence

For years, Sanders has voiced concerns regarding the impact of wealthy individuals on government decision-making. When asked about the evolving dangers of billionaire influence, he remarked, “I think anybody who is not dumb, deaf or blind is seeing precisely what is happening.” He criticized the notion of a government that is increasingly representative of the wealthy elite rather than the general populace.

Assessing the Democratic Party’s Response

Reflections on Leadership

Reflecting on the Democratic Party’s strategies, Sanders expressed disappointment over insufficient responses to Trump’s administration. He noted, “I’m a member of the Democratic Caucus as an independent… do I think the Democrats have been effective in rallying the American people in stopping Trump’s movement toward oligarchy and authoritarianism? No, I don’t.”

Strategies for Opposition

Amidst the current political landscape, Sanders pointed out that gaining Senate approval for major legislation requires a minimum of 60 votes, indicating a need for collaboration even with groups outside of the Democratic Party. He emphasized targeting districts represented by Republicans who won by narrow margins to disrupt unfavorable legislation.

Critique of Democratic Leadership

Sanders placed responsibility on Democratic leadership, particularly targeting Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. He highlighted a broader issue within the party, suggesting that significant portions are influenced by affluent donors and disconnected from the needs of the populace. “It is not just Chuck Schumer. It’s a Democratic Party in general that is dominated by billionaires,” he explained.

Support for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

In discussing the future of the Progressive Caucus, Sanders praised Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, underscoring the influx of committed and capable young leaders in the House. “Alexandria is extraordinary,” he noted, asserting her ability to inspire young Americans and galvanize support for progressive ideals.