U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders visited Kalamazoo as part of his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, drawing thousands to Western Michigan University. Accompanied by Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, Sanders addressed issues like the cost of living, corporate influence in politics, and party division. He asserted that Americans reject oligarchy and authoritarianism, while emphasizing the importance of the labor movement. El-Sayed, running for the seat currently held by Senator Gary Peters, echoed Sanders’ sentiments and called for unity within the Democratic Party, criticizing its divisiveness.
The event featured speeches from local union leaders who highlighted the challenges of negotiating with big businesses. Attendees displayed support for El-Sayed and Sanders, actively engaging with the speakers. Audience members expressed admiration for Sanders, reflecting a sense of hope in his commitment to social issues. Following the event, attendees mingled and explored booths selling merchandise. Sanders’ next tour stop is in Chicago at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
