The Vermont senator is traveling the country to rally people behind his anti-authoritarian message. Sanders has repeatedly said the tour isn't a sign he wants to run for president again, but a way for him to step up to fight the actions of President Donald Trump's administration, such as mass deportations, firings of federal workers and moves to weaken federal oversight — often in the face of judge rulings.
"The country’s in trouble and I want to play my role," Sanders told the Associated Press earlier this month.
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will join Sanders for the Denver tour stop on March 21. Ocasio-Cortez, along with Sanders, has been one of the federally elected leaders at the forefront of the resistance to Trump's actions.
The tour focuses on swing House districts currently controlled by Republicans. Although central Denver has long been represented by Democrat Diana DeGette, Republican Gabe Evans won a close victory against incumbent Democrat Yadira Caraveo in Colorado's 8th Congressional District, which includes parts of northern Denver.
Denver is expected to attract a particularly big crowd, with estimates of over 20,000 people heading to Civic Center Park this afternoon.
Speakers and Musical Acts
Also joining the Denver event will be illegally fired FTC commissioner Alvaro Bedoya and union presidents Jimmy Williams and Kim Cordova. Cordova is the head of the King Soopers union, which recently went on strike. Musical guests will be Freedom Singers Gospel and Xiuhtezcatl.According to the event page, "doors" will open at 4 p.m. and the speaking program will begin at 5 p.m. at Civic Center Park. The event prohibits bags, signs and firearms. People who want to attend are encouraged to RSVP here.
