In a vibrant display of political enthusiasm, thousands of people are currently gathered at Denver's Civic Center Park, eagerly awaiting the arrival of U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. This rally is part of a larger movement known as the Fight the Oligarchy tour, which aims to address pressing issues facing American society. Earlier today, over 11,000 individuals attended a similar event at the Bank of Colorado Arena in Greeley, demonstrating the growing momentum behind this cause.
During his speech on the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) campus, Sanders passionately asserted, “The American people are saying loud and clear, we will not accept an oligarchic form of society.” He criticized the current administration for prioritizing the interests of the wealthy, stating that cuts to essential services like the Social Security Administration and the Veterans Administration threaten the welfare of the American public. Sanders emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting how tax breaks for the top 1% have come at the expense of vital government funding.
Sanders, an independent from Vermont and a two-time presidential candidate, has embarked on a "coast to coast" tour aimed at fostering a populist resistance against the policies of President Donald Trump and high-profile billionaires like Elon Musk. Concurrently, Ocasio-Cortez has been vocal about the divisive nature of modern politics, stating, "If you don't know your neighbor, it's easier to turn on them." Her call for unity resonates deeply with attendees who are eager for a more connected and engaged community.
The Greeley rally reflects a growing trend of large crowds in areas traditionally viewed as red districts. With approximately 4,000 people inside the arena and an additional 8,000 gathering outside, both parties recognize Colorado's 8th Congressional District as one of the most competitive in the nation. Current GOP Representative Gabe Evans narrowly defeated former Democratic Representative Yadira Caraveo in the last election, making this district a focal point for political strategy.
Attendees expressed their worries about the growing influence of wealth in politics. Helene Hooprich, a long-time Sanders supporter from Greeley, conveyed her fears about funding cuts to essential government services. "We can't let wealthy individuals take away our funding for government... Anything I can do to support," she said, echoing sentiments shared by many in the crowd.
Many participants at the rally, including Bonnie Auslander from Lyons, articulated a growing disappointment with the Democratic Party’s current direction. "I'm really concerned about poor people in the United States, working class," Auslander shared, highlighting a desire for candidates who prioritize working-class issues over centrist policies. Others, like Cathy Leon from Fort Collins, expressed a need for community connection, stating, "It's just really nice to be out here and be with people of mind." This sense of camaraderie is a central theme of both Sanders' and Ocasio-Cortez's messages.
In Greeley, Ocasio-Cortez reinforced the importance of community engagement, stating, "Our task here is to build community." She emphasized that while elections may come and go, the bonds formed within communities are crucial in combating authoritarianism and corruption. This message resonated with a crowd that included diverse age groups, from older voters to young families enjoying the rally atmosphere.
Friday's rally was reminiscent of a presidential campaign atmosphere, with thousands gathered outside the arena, some perched in trees for a better view of the jumbotron. Despite the palpable energy, Sanders clarified that he is not running for president again, stating, "This is not a campaign... The country’s in trouble and I want to play my role." His commitment to addressing these urgent issues continues to inspire supporters across the country.
As the Fight the Oligarchy tour progresses, the impact of these rallies on local communities and national politics remains to be seen, but the growing crowds and unified messages suggest a significant movement is underway.
