U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, delivered a powerful message to a massive crowd that filled Denver’s Civic Center on Friday evening. This rally, described as Sanders’ largest ever, was part of a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour that he is undertaking with U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York, in an effort to rally early support for Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Sanders passionately denounced the influence of billionaires in American politics, declaring, “We will not allow America to become an oligarchy.” He emphasized the importance of working-class Americans in shaping the nation and vowed to resist the control exerted by a select few wealthy individuals.
Ocasio-Cortez, who estimated the crowd size to be around 30,000 people, echoed Sanders’ sentiments, asserting that an extreme concentration of power and corruption is threatening the country. She called for a better world and highlighted the need for a Democratic Party that prioritizes the working class and fights for their interests.
During the rally, Ocasio-Cortez also commended Colorado’s Democratic representatives and urged communities to support officials who advocate for the working class. However, she took the opportunity to criticize Republican Rep. Gabe Evans, who narrowly defeated Democrat Yadira Caraveo in the recent election.
The duo of Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez has been targeting areas represented by Republicans but with potential to shift towards Democrats in future elections. Their visit to Denver followed a rally in Greeley, where they attracted a significant turnout of about 11,000 people.
In response to Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez’s policies, including their stance against the oil and gas industry, Congressman Evans issued a statement criticizing their positions. He emphasized his commitment to lower costs, safer communities, and the American Dream for all Coloradans.
Sanders, who won the Democratic nomination in Colorado in 2020 and 2016, reiterated his core principles at the rally, focusing on issues such as healthcare reform, Social Security, and income inequality. He condemned the greed of oligarchs and questioned the insatiable desire for wealth.
The event in Denver featured other speakers, including union leaders and former FTC commissioner Alvaro Bedoya, who was recently dismissed by President Trump. The rally drew attention from onlookers perched on nearby rooftops and gathered outside the official event perimeter.
Overall, the rally remained peaceful, with attendees expressing frustration towards both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. The crowd enthusiastically supported calls for action, chanting slogans like “tax the rich” and urging the Democratic Party to be more proactive in addressing the concerns of working-class Americans.
Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez have continued their tour in various cities, aiming to mobilize support for progressive policies and candidates. Their message resonates with many Americans who seek greater accountability and representation in government.
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