Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are currently on a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, aimed at addressing the influence of wealthy individuals and corporations in politics. Despite the Democratic Party’s recent struggles to secure congressional majorities, the tour emphasizes the need to confront these power dynamics. Sanders criticizing the government as being “of the billionaires, by the billionaires and for the billionaires,” has raised questions about the tour’s timing, as resources could be better allocated closer to the upcoming elections.
The article points out the financial mess in political contributions, stemming from the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United ruling, which allowed unlimited corporate spending on political advertisements. While both parties benefit from super PACs, Sanders’s focus on individuals like Elon Musk and Republican ties appears limited, overlooking the broader issue. Musk has faced criticism from Democrats for his association with the Republican Party and his role in cutting government spending through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Additionally, Sanders has expressed frustration with the Democratic Party’s lack of progressiveness, questioning its commitment to working-class interests. The tour seeks to energize supporters and push for a more progressive agenda within the party as the 2024 elections approach. Overall, the tour reflects a strategic attempt to reshape the Democratic Party amidst a challenging political landscape.
