Senator Bernie Sanders defended his use of private jets during his recent “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, which he is conducting alongside Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. This defense came during an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier on Wednesday, where the senator faced questions about the significant costs associated with his travel.
Baier raised concerns about a report revealing that Sanders’ campaign committee, Friends of Bernie Sanders, spent over $221,000 on private jet charters in the first quarter of 2025. This expenditure has drawn criticism, especially given Sanders’ long-standing stance against the influence of wealthy elites in politics. The senator has previously faced scrutiny for his travel choices, which some critics argue contradict his advocacy for climate action and economic equality.
In the interview, Baier pointed out comments from Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who suggested that Democrats should avoid using the term “oligarchy” as it doesn’t resonate with many voters. He also highlighted the criticism from the Washington Free Beacon, which noted Sanders’ extensive spending on private flights over the years.
In response, Sanders shifted the focus to former President Donald Trump, questioning the last time Trump used a commercial airport during his campaign. He argued that the nature of modern campaigning requires quick travel to reach large audiences. “The only way you can get around to talk to 30,000 people,” Sanders said, “is not by waiting in line at United.”
Sanders expressed no regrets about his travel methods, stating, “That’s what campaign travel is about. We’ve done it in the past, we’re going to do it in the future.”
The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) seized on this opportunity to criticize both Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, labeling them "champagne socialists." NRCC spokesperson Ben Petersen accused them of hypocrisy, pointing out the contrast between their luxurious travel and their calls for ordinary Americans to make sacrifices for climate change.
As Sanders continues his tour, the debate over the spending of campaign funds and the implications of such travel choices remains a hot topic, drawing attention from both supporters and critics alike.