On Saturday, 12 April 2025, Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) held their largest rally to date in Los Angeles, drawing an estimated 36,000 attendees to Gloria Molina Grand Park. This event was part of their nationwide “Fighting Oligarchy: Where We Go From Here” tour, aimed at mobilising opposition to corporate influence and advocating for progressive reforms.YouTube+5Los Angeles Times+5YouTube+5ABC7 Los Angeles+11International Business Times+11The Guardian+11
Rally Highlights
Record-Breaking Attendance
The Los Angeles rally marked a significant milestone, with the crowd stretching beyond Grand Park into adjacent streets. This turnout surpassed previous events in Denver and Tempe, underscoring the growing momentum behind the progressive movement. Los Angeles TimesDenverite
Musical Performances
The rally featured performances by renowned artists, including Joan Baez, Neil Young, Maggie Rogers, and The Red Pears. These performances added a cultural dimension to the political gathering, energising the crowd and emphasising the intersection of art and activism. Los Angeles Times+4The Guardian+4Bernie Sanders Action+4
Key Messages
Bernie Sanders
Senator Sanders addressed the crowd with a stark warning about the current political climate, stating that the United States is facing “extraordinary danger” due to the increasing influence of oligarchs. He criticised former President Donald Trump’s administration for policies favouring the wealthy and undermining social safety nets like Social Security and Medicare. Sanders emphasised the need for collective action to combat these trends. The Guardian
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Representative Ocasio-Cortez delivered a passionate speech highlighting systemic issues within the American political system. She argued that the current administration’s actions are not anomalies but rather the result of longstanding policies that prioritise corporate profits over people. AOC called for a reimagining of governance that centres on the needs of the working class and marginalised communities. POLITICO+11Los Angeles Times+11Wikipedia+11
Broader Context
The “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, initiated in February 2025, seeks to galvanise support for progressive policies such as universal healthcare, wealth taxation, and campaign finance reform. Beyond rallies, the tour aims to build grassroots networks and encourage civic engagement across the United States. The Washington Post+9Wikipedia+9The Guardian+9
Despite the enthusiasm at these events, progressives face challenges in translating this energy into legislative victories. In California, efforts to pass measures like single-payer healthcare and rent control have encountered resistance, highlighting the complexities of effecting systemic change even in traditionally liberal states. POLITICO
Next Steps
Following the Los Angeles rally, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez plan to continue their tour with upcoming events in Utah, Idaho, Montana, and additional locations in California. These efforts aim to sustain momentum and expand the reach of their message as they advocate for a more equitable and democratic society. The Guardian
