Former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders attracted a significant audience at the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling on Friday, filling the venue to capacity with around 3,000 attendees from the Ohio Valley and Pittsburgh regions. Many supporters arrived early, standing in line for up to four hours in anticipation of Sanders taking the stage.
Sanders, known for his progressive views, focused on themes of economic justice as he addressed the crowd, emphasizing the urgent need for an economy that benefits the majority rather than the wealthy elite. “We want, we demand, we will have an economy that works for all of us, not just the 1%,” he declared passionately.
Currently, Sanders is actively campaigning in traditionally conservative areas like West Virginia and North Carolina, aiming to bridge the gap between the affluent and working-class citizens. He criticized the excessive wealth accumulation of the richest individuals, stating, “These guys have enough money to support their families for the next 1,000 years. They don’t need anymore.”
His remarks coincided with concerns regarding health care, particularly in light of President Trump’s recently passed legislation, which Sanders argued could result in 15 million Americans losing their health insurance. Sanders is not alone in this fight; local leaders, such as Brian Butcher, president of the West Virginia Housing Justice board, echoed the sentiment of a growing movement for economic and social justice.
Sanders stressed the importance of unity among diverse communities against demagoguery, saying, “If we don’t allow Trump and his friends to play the same old demagogic trip of trying to divide us up… Our job is to bring our people together around an agenda that works for all of us.”
This event was part of Sanders’ broader August tour, which will continue with stops in locations like Charleston, as he aims to amplify the voices of everyday people in the political landscape.
Overall, Sanders’ rally reflects a hopeful push for a united front on economic issues and social justice, as he connects with various communities across the nation.