Mar. 19, 2025, 4:02 pm ET
Bernie Sanders has launched a series of scathing critiques against the Trump administration, warning that the country is moving towards an oligarchic and authoritarian regime. In recent remarks and articles, specifically on February 19, 2025, and other recent dates, the Vermont senator highlighted the growing influence of billionaires and the need for a grassroots movement to combat Trumpism.
During his remarks, which were livestreamed and viewed by over 91,000 people in real time, Sanders emphasized that the United States is not just moving towards an oligarchy but is already living in one. He singled out Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, noting that their combined wealth of $905 billion exceeds that of the bottom half of American society. Since Trump’s election, their wealth has grown by $217 billion.
Sanders delivered his remarks in various locations, including Washington, D.C., Omaha, Nebraska, and Iowa City, Iowa. He also organized nationwide grassroots events to rally support against what he describes as the Trump administration’s policies that favor billionaires over working-class Americans.
A Movement to Defeat ‘Trumpism’
“We are no longer MOVING TOWARD oligarchy. We are LIVING IN an oligarchy,” Sanders stated. He called for a strong, grassroots movement to defeat Trumpism, asserting that it will not be overcome by politicians within the Washington beltway.
Sanders’ analysis extends to the Trump administration’s policies, which he asserts are designed to benefit the wealthy elite. “Today, 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck; millions are earning starvation wages,” Sanders said, highlighting the stark economic disparities that he believes current policies exacerbate.
At the core of his critique, Sanders stressed the importance of defending democratic values and the rule of law. He criticized the administration’s policies on tax breaks, Medicaid, housing, nutrition, and education, arguing that they disproportionately harm working-class Americans while benefiting the already wealthy.
Billionaires’ Influence on Politics and Media
The senator’s remarks come at a time when there is increasing debate about the role of billionaires in politics and media. Sanders pointed out that Elon Musk contributed over $270 million to Trump’s campaign, showing the considerable influence these individuals wield.
“Trumpism will not be defeated by politicians inside the DC beltway. It will only be defeated by millions of Americans, in every state in this country, coming together in a strong, grassroots movement,” Sanders declared.
The increasing wealth gap and the perceived influence of billionaires through platforms like Fox and X (Musk’s platform) are central to Sanders’ argument. He views right-wing media as a key factor in spreading extremist ideology and the “big lie,” further entrenching the Trump administration’s policies.
Editor’s Note: Oligarch Billionaires can start wars, while working families bear the consequences.
The Need for Grassroots Action
Sanders’ call to action is clear: a grassroots movement is necessary to counteract the influence of the billionaire class. He believes that only through widespread, coordinated efforts by everyday Americans can the dangers of oligarchy and authoritarianism be defeated. Discussion of the wealth of Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg may prove a powerful rallying cry.
With the potential impacts of current policies and the erosion of democratic values at stake, Sanders’ voice adds to the chorus of those urging immediate action. The ongoing debate about tax breaks, Medicaid cuts, and other critical issues highlights the need for sustained pressure and engagement from the American public.
