Sen. Bernie Sanders rallied in Chicago as part of his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, emphasizing the dangers of wealth inequality and the influence of billionaires in politics. His address came amid concerns about a potential military deployment to the city by President Trump, who has been criticized for scapegoating various groups and diverting attention from pressing issues like healthcare and climate change.
Sanders described Trump as a “demagogue” and criticized recent federal plans to address crime, stating that history shows that division only serves the oligarchy. Illinois State Sen. Robert Peters echoed these sentiments, vowing to resist any federal military presence and highlighting legislative successes like the elimination of cash bail.
The rally featured workers from a local packaging plant on strike for better wages and safer working conditions, further illustrating grassroots resistance against corporate interests. Attendees expressed skepticism regarding military solutions to urban issues, stressing real community support over showmanship. Sanders also condemned U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel, advocating for a reevaluation of funding given recent humanitarian crises. Overall, the rally addressed a range of interconnected social and political justice issues, framing them as part of a broader struggle against oligarchy and inequality.
