Story perspectives

Mamdani, Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez Rally Against Wealthy Donors

10/28/2025

Summary

Story summary

On Oct. 26, 2025, Zohran Mamdani rallied with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to oppose wealthy donors backing opponents.
Despite leading in polls, Mamdani urged vigilance and ongoing grassroots fundraising to counter wealthy donors.
The rally highlighted affordability and universal childcare, while Gov. Kathy Hochul faced chants of "tax the rich" and Ocasio-Cortez framed the race as a fight against corruption and billionaire influence.

History

Historical Context

The 2010 Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. FEC overturned key provisions of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, allowing unlimited corporate spending in elections. This decision significantly increased the influence of wealthy donors, exemplified by the Koch Brothers' $400 million expenditure in the 2012 elections. Today, activists like Mamdani, Sanders, and Ocasio-Cortez continue to advocate for campaign finance reform and grassroots accountability.

1 of 2

Story summary

On Oct. 26, 2025, Zohran Mamdani rallied with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to oppose wealthy donors backing opponents.
Despite leading in polls, Mamdani urged vigilance and ongoing grassroots fundraising to counter wealthy donors.
The rally highlighted affordability and universal childcare, while Gov. Kathy Hochul faced chants of "tax the rich" and Ocasio-Cortez framed the race as a fight against corruption and billionaire influence.

1 / 2