Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., are set to bring their “Fighting Oligarchy” rallies to the West Coast next week, urging supporters to prioritize safety by wearing masks at the upcoming town halls in Denver and Las Vegas. The decision to advise attendees to mask up has stirred a mix of confusion and skepticism, especially as the events are being held outdoors in 2025, five years after the COVID-19 pandemic first emerged.
Conservative podcaster Stephen L. Miller sparked a debate on social media when he shared a post about the Denver event, questioning the rationale behind recommending masks for an outdoor gathering. As reactions poured in, some criticized the move as outdated, while others speculated that the masks could be a means of safeguarding participants’ identities.
The unexpected mask guidance has left many scratching their heads, particularly in light of recent shifts in mask mandates by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With the travel mask mandate lifted in April 2022, the decision to wear masks at public events has become a matter of personal choice and risk assessment.
Despite the confusion, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez remain committed to engaging with working people across the West Coast, aiming to address their concerns about the state of affairs in Washington, D.C. The duo plans to hold town meetings in Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado to connect with constituents who are disillusioned with the current political landscape and advocate for issues like healthcare, living wages, and anti-corruption measures.
Progressive Pushback and Town Hall Tactics
The decision to host town halls comes in the wake of a series of protests that disrupted Republican events, prompting the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) to caution against such gatherings. Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has taken matters into his own hands, embarking on a series of town hall events in GOP-held districts to fill the void left by Republican representatives who have shied away from direct engagement with constituents.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has joined forces with other Democratic entities to organize a nationwide initiative called “People’s Town Halls” aimed at providing a platform for voters to voice their concerns. DNC Chair Ken Martin has emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of working families and holding elected officials accountable, especially in target districts where Republicans have been elusive.
Despite the NRCC’s dismissal of the protests as manufactured spectacles, progressive groups have been actively mobilizing to challenge the Trump-Musk agenda and advocate for a more responsive government. MoveOn.org, backed by billionaire George Soros, has been at the forefront of the “Congress Works for Us, Not Musk” campaign, pressuring lawmakers to resist policies that align with the former president’s agenda.
Masking Amidst Uncertainty
The ongoing debate over mask mandates and public safety measures has resurfaced with the mask advisory for the upcoming town hall events featuring Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez. While the CDC continues to recommend masks in certain settings, the decision to wear masks at public gatherings remains a contentious issue, with conflicting studies on their effectiveness in preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
As attendees prepare to participate in the “Fighting Oligarchy” rallies, the organizers have laid out specific safety protocols, including the prohibition of bags, signs, and firearms at the events. Additionally, individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or feeling unwell are encouraged to stay home to prevent the potential spread of the virus.
In the midst of evolving public health guidelines and political activism, the choice to wear masks at outdoor events in 2025 serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic and the importance of prioritizing community well-being. While opinions may vary on the necessity of masks, the underlying message of solidarity and civic engagement remains at the core of these town hall gatherings.
Deirdre Heavey is a seasoned politics writer for Fox News Digital, offering insights into the intersection of public health, activism, and political discourse. Through her reporting, she strives to capture the nuances of contemporary issues and provide a platform for diverse perspectives in the ever-changing landscape of American politics.
