Sanders Urges Action Against Oligarchs' Influence

During his address at the Democratic National Convention, Senator Bernie Sanders emphasized the urgent need to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which he believes should be a top priority for the Democratic Party. Sanders highlighted the significant influence of billionaires and dark-money groups in recent elections, stating, "Billionaires in both parties should not be able to buy elections, including primary elections." He advocated for public funding of elections to restore democracy. Sanders criticized the current political climate, where oligarchs discourage essential reforms such as price controls, expanded Medicare, and increased Social Security benefits for seniors. He pointed to the alarming spending by super PACs, which have already exceeded $1 billion in this election cycle, as a direct consequence of the Citizens United ruling. This spending has notably impacted Democratic primary contests, particularly with the involvement of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee's super PAC, which aims to unseat lawmakers advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza. The senator condemned the actions of super PACs, labeling them as "outrageous," and reiterated the Democratic Party's commitment to ending Citizens United. He framed his agenda, which includes strengthening public education and healthcare, as reasonable, contrasting it with what he termed the "radical agenda" of former President Trump. Sanders concluded his speech by urging delegates to support Kamala Harris in the upcoming election, envisioning a future aligned with progressive values.