Tens of thousands of people gathered in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday for a rally led by Senator Bernie Sanders. The event, part of his "Fighting Oligarchy" tour, aimed to rally support against what Sanders described as the growing threat of authoritarianism in the United States, particularly under the leadership of former President Donald Trump.
Dressed in a blue shirt and a Dodgers cap, the 83-year-old senator spoke passionately to a crowd that stretched from Grand Park to the steps of City Hall. He emphasized that the country is facing a critical moment and urged attendees not to lose hope. "Despair is not an option," he declared, adding, "The stakes are just too high."
Sanders’ team reported that about 36,000 people attended the rally, marking one of his largest gatherings to date. The event featured prominent progressive figures, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and performances by musicians like Neil Young and Joan Baez. Ocasio-Cortez echoed Sanders’ sentiments, highlighting the struggles many face due to a political system dominated by wealthy interests. She stated, "This is what oligarchy feels like. And it can only get worse until we act."
The rally had a festive atmosphere, with supporters wearing T-shirts and hats from previous Bernie campaigns, as well as messages opposing Trump. Many attendees expressed their frustration with the current political climate and their desire for more action from Democratic leaders. Lisa Pitchon-Getzels, a retired attendee, shared her disappointment with the Democratic Party, saying, "Trump has to be stopped, and the Democrats have got to do it."
Sanders criticized the Democrats for not doing enough during their previous time in power, arguing that they often come across as the party of the status quo. He called for more aggressive action against corporate interests that contribute to societal issues.
The rally was part of a broader tour that has included stops in Republican-held districts, aiming to mobilize support for the upcoming 2026 elections. Sanders mentioned that he is hiring organizers in key areas to help bolster Democratic efforts.
As the event concluded, Sanders took time to greet supporters, emphasizing the importance of grassroots organizing and the need for continued activism. The energy from the rally seemed to resonate with many, inspiring them to become more involved in the political process as they face the challenges ahead.