Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are taking their “Fighting Oligarchy” rallies out West, with events scheduled in Denver and Las Vegas. Participants are advised to wear masks, which has sparked some confusion and debate, as the events are outdoor. Some speculate that the masks are to protect attendees’ identities, as masks are commonly used at large demonstrations to protect protesters. However, these events are not protests but traditional campaign rallies, where attendees line up to hear the headline speaker.
The progressives will also be making stops in Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado to hold town meetings with working people who are frustrated with the situation in Washington, D.C. The National Republican Congressional Committee warned against town hall meetings following protests during President Donald Trump’s second term. Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota started his town hall events in Republican-held districts, intending to give a voice to constituents whose representatives are avoiding them. The Democratic National Committee announced a joint effort to host town halls in Republican-held districts to address the issues of working families.
Progressive groups have organized protests at various Republican town halls, with the goal of pressuring lawmakers to resist what they refer to as the “Trump-Musk agenda.” This initiative includes an attempt to disrupt town hall meetings by gathering paid protesters to confront Republican representatives. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Trump have labeled these protesters as “paid troublemakers.” In response, the Democrats have planned the “Congress Works for Us, Not Musk” initiative to counter the Trump-Musk agenda and ensure that the voices of working families are heard.
In addition to the mask guidance, the flier for the upcoming event with Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez includes safety precautions for large public events. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had lifted the travel mask mandate in April 2022, but still, recommends masks in indoor public transportation settings. People in high-risk categories are also advised to wear masks or avoid non-essential indoor activities in public. While masking is believed to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, some studies have questioned its efficacy.
Overall, the events organized by Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are part of their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour where they aim to connect with working people and address issues of public interest. The use of masks at these outdoor events has sparked debate, with some speculating they are for protecting attendees’ identities. In response to protests and disruptions at Republican town halls, progressive groups are mobilizing resources to apply pressure on lawmakers to resist what they see as the Trump-Musk agenda. The DNC, in collaboration with other groups, is hosting town halls in Republican-held districts to amplify the voices of working families.
