Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders visited Bethlehem on Saturday for his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, rallying at Stabler Arena to address concerns about the lack of opposition to President Donald Trump among leading Democrats. Partnering with New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who was not present, Sanders aimed to mobilize support against the influence of billionaires and super PACs on American democracy.
The rally attracted around 5,000 attendees, mostly local residents rather than students, and featured musical performances alongside speeches from local leaders, union representatives, and activists. Sanders stressed the need to fight oligarchy and criticized the significant political power held by a small elite, which he argued perpetuates economic inequality.
He called for resistance against what he deemed the “corporate takeover” of government and urged attendees to challenge the billionaire class’s greed. Notable speakers included Rep. Chris Deluzio and former Rep. Susan Wild, who discussed the growing public demand for bipartisanship and policies that benefit working families.
Concerns about potential cuts to Medicaid were highlighted by Enid Santiago, who demanded that elected officials prioritize the well-being of families reliant on the program. Tim Herzog echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for solidarity among working people against the elite’s actions.
Amid the rally, pro-Palestine protesters briefly disrupted the event, and outside, demonstrators protested against Elon Musk’s influence in government. Many attendees voiced their dissatisfaction with the current political landscape, expressing a desire for change and solidarity in fighting against systemic injustices.
The rally concluded with Sanders urging attendees to view their activism as the start of a long battle against authoritarianism, reminding them that their efforts are crucial for future generations.
