Senator Bernie Sanders has responded to criticism over his use of private jets during his nationwide “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, insisting that the travel choice was necessary to keep up with the demanding schedule of events across multiple states.
Joined by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Sanders has been speaking at a series of rallies aimed at confronting economic inequality and corporate influence. Despite promoting progressive policies and challenging the elite, his campaign has spent more than $221,000 on private flights in the first quarter of 2025.
Critics have called the use of private jets hypocritical given Sanders’ stance on wealth distribution and environmental justice. However, the senator pushed back, arguing that reaching as many Americans as possible requires efficient transportation and that the urgency of his message outweighs the optics.
Sanders emphasized that the core of the tour is about challenging systemic power structures, expanding healthcare access, and pushing for fair wages—goals he says require a broad and fast-moving campaign. The tour continues to draw national attention as both supporters and opponents weigh the contrast between messaging and method.