An estimated 20,000 people filled Catalina High School’s football stadium in Tucson, Arizona, on March 22, 2025, for a rally led by progressive leaders in the latest leg of the "Fighting Oligarchy" tour. Spearheaded by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the event emphasized the urgent need for political accountability and a unified front against the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk.
The gathering also served as a poignant tribute by Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, who honored her late father, Congressman Raúl Grijalva. "I am dealing with the greatest loss of my life ... no better way to honor my dad than to add my voice to this event," she shared with the crowd. Her heartfelt acknowledgment underscored the importance of family and community in the fight for social justice.
Sanders, known for his staunch defense of the working class, rallied attendees with his remarks on the wealth divide in the United States. He proclaimed, "At the end of the day, 99% is a hell of a bigger number than 1%." This resonated deeply with the crowd, reinforcing the message that the vast majority should advocate for their rights against the privileged few.
Ocasio-Cortez also engaged the crowd, criticizing President Trump’s administration for allegedly handing over governmental control to billionaires. "Trump handed the keys of government to Elon Musk and is selling the country for parts to the richest people on the planet for a kickback," she stated, prompting cheers and applause from the audience.
Attendees expressed a range of concerns, from the impact of immigration policies to fears surrounding social security. Ally May, a participant at the rally, voiced her worries about expedited deportations under recent policies, highlighting personal experiences and the dismantling of the immigration system. "It’s pretty terrifying," she remarked, advocating for a focus on fixing the system rather than criminalizing those seeking safety.
University of Arizona junior Rachel Zorr, another attendee, articulated fears surrounding the potential cuts to educational funding, saying, "With the way things are going, I feel like I may not be able to afford law school next year." Her words echoed the anxiety many feel regarding the future of education amid political uncertainties.
Beyond education, some attendees like Kathelyn Morales expressed their apprehensions about social security, particularly with her mother nearing retirement and relying on it for stability. "It's worrying me because the government not being able to help will set me back in my life," she explained, exemplifying the real-life impacts of political decisions on families.
Increasingly, the crowd's focus turned toward the perceived threats posed by billionaires and their political influence. Sanders reiterated that "we will not allow Trump to move this country into oligarchy," emphasizing the need for solidarity among working-class Americans.
With electric energy pulsing through the stadium, many participants cheered loudly and stomped their feet in agreement, especially when speakers denounced Trump and Musk. Greg Casar, another key speaker, led chants, urging people to raise their voices against the establishment. His rallying cry aimed to empower attendees who felt marginalized by powerful corporations and their political allies.
Responding to criticisms from right-leaning constituents, Casar stated, "Donald Trump wants you to feel powerless, but your power is scaring Republican officeholders from holding any town halls." His message aimed to energize the crowd about their collective potential for change.
Beyond the speeches, survey data revealing dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party further fueled rally excitement. Recent polls indicated that left-leaning voters felt the party’s response to Trump’s agenda lacked the necessary fervor. Natalie Callahan, a rally attendee, noted her frustration: "It's so incredibly frustrating to lose to such a horrible candidate ... but they want us to spend more money." She sought clarity on a Democratic plan to combat Trump's agenda.
As the rally came to a close, the message was clear; attendees left with heightened feelings of unity and renewed determination. "We all care about the same things," said Pamela Slavin, summarizing the sentiment within the crowd. More than just a political gathering, this event stood as a testament to a community seeking to reclaim its voice in the face of political and social challenges.
With ongoing discussions on economic inequality, the role of government, and the power dynamics at play, the "Fighting Oligarchy" tour continues to galvanize grassroots movements nationwide, encouraging citizens to stand together for the values of democracy, equity, and justice. As they depart, many attendees are reminded that their collective strength can foster the change needed to create a better future for all underrepresented voters.
