Bernie Sanders Defends Use of Private Jets During National Tour Against Oligarchy

Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont has made it clear that he has “no apologies” for utilizing private jets as he travels across the country for his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour. This tour, which has gained significant traction, highlights the ongoing struggle against powerful corporate interests in the United States.

Partnered with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York, Sanders is emerging as a leading figure in the progressive faction of the Democratic Party. The tour was launched as a direct response to the political climate following President Donald Trump’s second term. Its main goal is to challenge the influence of oligarchs and large corporations that dominate American politics.

During his tour, which features multiple rallies each week, Sanders has defended his travel choices. In an exclusive interview with Special Report’s executive editor Bret Baier, he stated that using private jets is essential for reaching a broad audience in a short time frame.

“Running a campaign often involves three to five rallies in a single week. The only efficient way to facilitate that is by traveling quickly,” Sanders explained. He emphasized the importance of not wasting time at airports while thousands of supporters await his arrival.

Sanders reiterated, “That’s the only way to get around for a campaign. I will not apologize for the way we travel. We’ve done this in the past, and we will continue to do so in the future.” His candor resonates with many who understand the demands of campaigning.

Financial Insights into Campaign Travel Expenses

Sanders’ campaign committee, Friends of Bernie Sanders, reported expenditures exceeding $221,000 on private jet charters for the first quarter of 2025, as disclosed in filings to the Federal Election Commission. These documents reveal significant payments made to three aviation companies: Ventura Jets, Cirrus Aviation Services, and N-Jet.

Included in these costs were flights featuring Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, with some flights reportedly priced at an eye-popping $15,000 per hour. These expenses are part of their strategy to attract supporters while efficiently managing their time during the tour.

Public Reactions and Challenges

The choice of private travel has not been without criticism. Sanders faces opposition from those who believe that such luxury contradicts his populist message. Critics often label him a