As the political landscape continues to shift in the United States, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders have emerged as prominent figures in the fight against what they term "oligarchy." Their recent "Fighting Oligarchy" tour has captured the attention of thousands across the nation, drawing significant crowds even in traditionally conservative areas.
The tour, which began in February 2025, has taken Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez through various states, including deep-red regions like Utah and Idaho. On April 14, 2025, the duo attracted over 12,500 attendees at the Ford Idaho Center in Boise, Idaho, a remarkable turnout given that there are only 11,902 registered Democratic voters in Canyon County, where the arena is located. An attendee, Ryan, a 28-year-old from South Weber, Utah, expressed his surprise at the turnout, stating, "We’re not used to that in a place like Utah," as reported by the Associated Press.
In the days leading up to the Boise rally, the two politicians had already drawn impressive crowds in Los Angeles, Denver, and Sacramento, with attendance numbers reaching 36,000, 34,000, and 30,000 respectively. Overall, the tour has reportedly attracted over 200,000 people, showcasing a growing momentum among progressive voters.
During their stops, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez have focused on issues such as income inequality, the influence of billionaires in politics, and the cuts to federal programs initiated by the Trump administration. Sanders, addressing a capacity crowd in Missoula, Montana, on April 16, 2025, emphasized the need for collective action against the concentration of wealth and power, stating, "We now have more concentration of ownership than we’ve ever had in the history of this country. They own most of the media. They own the United States Congress and the White House. But, you know what we got? We got the people. And the last that I have heard is that 99% is a hell of a lot bigger number than 1%." Ocasio-Cortez echoed these sentiments, urging attendees to reject division and focus on class solidarity.
At a rally in Folsom, California, Ocasio-Cortez passionately declared, "I don’t think this is Trump country. I think this is our country," as she rallied the crowd against the policies of the current administration. Her remarks resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom had traveled from surrounding conservative areas seeking inspiration and community.
The tour has not been without controversy. Critics have pointed out the apparent hypocrisy of Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez chartering a private jet for their travels, with costs reportedly reaching up to $15,000 an hour. This detail has drawn sharp criticism from opponents who label them as "champagne socialists"—a term used to describe individuals who advocate for socialist policies while enjoying a lavish lifestyle. Despite the backlash, Sanders' campaign committee has spent over $221,000 on private jet charters in the first quarter of 2025 alone, a stark contrast to the message of economic equality they promote.
As the tour progressed, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez continued to garner support from diverse demographics, including individuals from rural communities who feel disenfranchised by the current political climate. Many attendees expressed their concerns over issues such as healthcare, environmental protection, and social justice, indicating a desire for change.
In Missoula, rally-goer Beth Trosello, a small-business owner, remarked, "Everybody needs to have a living wage. Everybody needs to have decent health care." This sentiment was echoed by many who attended, as they voiced their frustrations with the current administration's policies and the impact on their lives.
The tour has also highlighted the growing discontent among voters regarding the Trump administration's cuts to vital social programs like Social Security and Medicaid. Ocasio-Cortez criticized these actions, stating that they disproportionately affect working families. She urged attendees to hold their representatives accountable, declaring, "Hell no! Hands off our Medicare! Hands off our Medicaid! Hands off our Social Security!"
In addition to their political messages, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez have sought to foster a sense of community among their supporters. By emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements and local organizing, they aim to inspire individuals to take action in their own communities.
As the tour concluded in Missoula, Sanders reiterated the need for unity in the face of adversity. He stated, "Brothers and sisters, we are tired of being oppressed. Let us stand together. Let us win this struggle." Ocasio-Cortez added, "It will always be the people, the masses, who refuse to comply with authoritarian regimes, who are our last and strongest defense of our country and our freedoms."
With their combined efforts, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are attempting to reignite faith in the Democratic Party's ability to effect change in the upcoming 2026 midterms and beyond. Their tour has not only highlighted the challenges facing the party but has also showcased the potential for a renewed progressive movement in America.
As they continue to advocate for policies aimed at reducing inequality and empowering working-class Americans, the impact of their tour will likely resonate well beyond the rallies themselves, potentially influencing the direction of the Democratic Party in the years to come.
