The political fervor was palpable in Folsom this week as Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez attracted thousands to their "Fighting Oligarchy" tour stop at Folsom Lake College. The event, set against the backdrop of Northern California's landscape, drew an eager crowd ready to hear the progressive cohort's message. Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, notable figures in the progressive wing of American politics, addressed a range of issues from corporate influence to affordable healthcare, according to ABC 10.
The crowd, which CBS Sacramento reported as numbering around 26,000, gathered well in advance, anticipating the headliners' speeches. "The world is falling apart, but Bernie gives all of us hope. It's really exciting to be around people who feel the same way as we do," Jazmin Davis told CBS Sacramento. The tour has consistently pulled in large turnouts, underpinning Sanders' and Ocasio-Cortez's push against the gravitational pull of corporate money in politics.
Security was especially tight for the event, as Sanders took a direct shot at one of the tech industry's giants. "Sorry Mr. Musk, we are going to create an economy that works for all of us, not just you," Sanders said, as reported by ABC 10. Attendees of the rally expressed the importance of making their voices heard and standing up for their country amidst challenging times.
While the tour received enthusiastic response from the gathered crowd, it wasn't without its critics. Close by, a different group displayed signs in support of President Trump, and calls to recall California Governor Gavin Newsom were visible to those driving to the event. Meanwhile, California Assemblyman James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) took a swipe at the progressive agenda. "As Bernie Sanders and AOC stop off in Folsom today please keep this in mind: We have adopted all of their policies in California. How's that working out for you? We have the highest cost of living, the most poverty, the most homeless, second highest gas prices, housing costs soaring out of sight," Gallagher said in a statement obtained by CBS Sacramento.
