Zohran Mamdani and Bernie Sanders rally together in Brooklyn against oligarchy

New Collaboration: Bernie Sanders and Zohran Mamdani Join Forces to Fight Oligarchy in NYC

Democratic socialists Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani are teaming up to combat oligarchy in the financial capital of the nation. The duo will be hosting the “Fighting Oligarchy” event in Brooklyn, with a strong focus on addressing corporate greed, billionaires, and corrupt politicians contributing to the affordability crisis in the city.

Mamdani’s recent victory in the June primary not only surprised the political establishment but also shook up the real estate and business leaders in New York City. With affordability at the core of Sanders’ and Mamdani’s agendas, both have been vocal about challenging America’s wealth inequality.

Despite allegations from The New York Times suggesting President Donald Trump’s interference in Mamdani’s campaign, the mayoral nominee remains undeterred. Trump has labeled Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic,” but his supporters continue to stand by him in his fight for affordability.

The White House’s silence on reports of Trump’s alleged attempts to influence the mayoral race and undermine Mamdani’s candidacy has raised concerns. Trump and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo deny discussing strategies to thwart Mamdani’s campaign.

Progressive Agenda in NYC

Sanders and Mamdani, known for their progressive stances, plan to participate in the Labor Day parade in Manhattan alongside union members before the “Fighting Oligarchy” event in Brooklyn. Sanders, in a recent interview, criticized Trump’s leadership, highlighting the dangers of income inequality and authoritarianism.

Zohran Mamdani at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on July 16, 2025. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The collaboration between Sanders and Mamdani began during a meeting in July, where they discussed their shared values and commitment to grassroots movements. Sanders endorsed Mamdani early in his primary campaign, alongside Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, igniting enthusiasm among progressive Democrats across the country.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders on the “Fighting Oligarchy” tour. (Reuters/Aude Guerrucci)

Mamdani’s platform includes bold initiatives such as rent freezes, city-run grocery stores, free buses, and raising the minimum wage – all funded by taxing corporations and the wealthy. These ideas resonate with the Democratic socialist agenda championed by Sanders for years.

“We are building a strong grassroots movement to challenge the billionaire class and corporate greed in the face of growing income inequality,” Sanders stated ahead of the Brooklyn town hall. He emphasized the threat of oligarchs undermining democracy and highlighted the importance of standing together against authoritarianism.

Sen. Bernie Sanders arriving for a confirmation hearing on July 16, 2025. (Valerie Plesch/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Sanders’ “Fighting Oligarchy” tour has attracted over 300,000 attendees across 34 rallies in 20 states, showcasing the widespread support for progressive values. While Mamdani’s unexpected primary win has reignited the Democratic base, it signals a shift towards a more progressive direction.

As the collaboration between Sanders and Mamdani gains momentum, their united front against oligarchy and inequality offers a new vision for the future of New York City.

Deirdre Heavey is a politics writer for Fox News Digital.