AOC, Sanders tell supporters to mask up for West Coast town halls

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., are gearing up to take their \”Fighting Oligarchy\” rallies out West next week, with a twist – they are advising supporters to mask up for the events. The RSVP for the events in Denver and Las Vegas includes guidance that \”masks are advised for all attendees of this event,\” according to Fox News Digital.

The decision to recommend masks for an outdoor event in 2025, five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, has sparked some confusion and debate online. Many people are questioning the need for masks at an outdoor event, while others speculate that it may be a way to protect attendees’ identities.

Despite the mixed reactions, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are pushing forward with their West Coast tour, which will include stops in Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado. The progressives aim to hold town meetings with working people who are dissatisfied with the state of affairs in Washington, D.C.

The decision to recommend masks comes at a time when there is growing discontent with the Trump-Musk agenda among Democrats. The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has advised against town halls following disruptions at previous events. However, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has announced a concerted effort to host town halls in Republican-held districts, giving a voice to working families who feel ignored by their representatives.

Despite the controversy surrounding the mask recommendation, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are determined to connect with their supporters and address their concerns. The events will adhere to typical safety precautions for large public gatherings, including a request for anyone feeling unwell to stay home.

While the CDC has lifted the travel mask mandate, masks are still recommended in certain settings, especially for those at medium to high risk of illness. The efficacy of wearing masks has been debated, but the CDC maintains that they can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

In conclusion, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez are forging ahead with their mission to fight oligarchy and connect with working people in the West. The mask recommendation may be a precautionary measure, but it underscores the ongoing concerns about public health and safety in the wake of the pandemic.