Bernie Sanders criticizes billionaire influence on US elections and wealth

Senator Bernie Sanders has criticized the United States campaign finance system, describing it as “corrupt” due to the massive influence of wealthy individuals and interest groups. Sanders specifically cited Elon Musk, noting that the billionaire spent over $650 million to influence elections between 2024 and 2026. He also highlighted significant spending from cryptocurrency interests, AIPAC, and the AI sector, calling for sweeping reforms to ensure a “one person, one vote” system.

In addition to campaign finance, Sanders addressed the concentration of wealth and the influence of “Big Tech Oligarchs.” He expressed support for proposals to regulate advanced artificial intelligence to prevent wealthy executives from unilaterally determining the technology's future.

In California, the debate over wealth inequality is centered on Proposition 40, a proposed one-time 5% levy on billionaire wealth. The measure aims to offset healthcare spending cuts and targets approximately 250 individuals in the state. Sanders has used recent public appearances to advocate for such measures, contrasting the surging assets of the billionaire class with the financial struggles of millions of American families.