Bernie Sanders Calls for Global Action Against Oligarchy and Unchecked AI

Senator Bernie Sanders used a late-Monday address at the historic Riverside Church in Manhattan to warn that the world is moving toward “an extremely dangerous global oligarchy.” He argued that a handful of billion-dollar owners wield disproportionate wealth, political influence, and control over emerging artificial-intelligence technologies, threatening democratic institutions, the environment, and humanity’s future. Sanders linked the concentration of power to rising living-cost pressures, pollution, war, and the exploitation of “right-wing demagogues” who divide working people along racial, national, or religious lines. He also called for an end to U.S. military assistance to Israel, describing the conflict in Gaza as a “genocidal assault.”

Common Dreams

The remarks were delivered as world leaders gathered in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly, echoing the church’s legacy as the venue for Martin Luther King Jr.’s anti-Vietnam speech. Sanders framed the moment as an opportunity for global leaders to confront systemic inequality and the accelerating risks posed by advanced AI.

Common Dreams

Sanders urged President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to begin negotiations on a comprehensive treaty that would pause development of advanced AI and ban “AI superintelligence.” He emphasized the need for governments to redirect resources from the military-industrial complex toward feeding children, caring for the vulnerable, and combating climate change.

Common Dreams

• “Instead of producing more bombs and weapons and seeing the military-industrial complex enjoy huge profits, governments throughout the world need to come together to feed the children, take care of the vulnerable, and protect our planet from the ravages of climate change,” — Sen. Bernie Sanders

Common Dreams

• “ "If there was ever a time in human history, in our country and throughout the world, that we have got to come together and create a world not based on greed but based on justice, based on decency, now is the time," said Sanders.” — Sen. Bernie Sanders

Common Dreams

Sanders’ speech concluded with a direct appeal for immediate diplomatic engagement on AI governance, suggesting that forthcoming meetings among the United States, China, and other nations could lay the groundwork for such a treaty.

Common Dreams