Bernie Sanders Kicks Off ‘Fighting the Oligarchy Tour’ in West Virginia

The Vermont senator said he aimed to unite Democrats and Republicans in fighting the influence of wealth on both political parties.

A street vendor offers merchandise prior to an appearance by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) at the Capitol Theater in Wheeling, W.Va., on Aug. 8, 2025. Lawrence Wilson/The Epoch Times

WHEELING, W.Va.—Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) brought his message of working-class empowerment to the Mountain State on Aug. 8, kicking off a three-day, four-event campaign to rally grassroots support in opposition to the moneyed interests in both parties.

A capacity crowd of some 2,500 turned out to hear the four-term senator and two-time Democratic presidential candidate at the city’s historic Capitol Theater.