By Charles Switzer
2:57am PDT, May 10, 2025
Sanders Defends Private Jet Use
Independent Senator
Bernie Sanders pushed back against criticism regarding his use of private jets during his "Fighting Oligarchy" tour in an interview with Fox News'
Bret Baier on Wednesday, May 7.
Baier questioned Sanders' choice of
private jet travel, noting that critics have raised concerns over the costs associated with the senator's flights, which reportedly exceed $200,000. Sanders, however, immediately countered the question by redirecting the focus to former President
Donald Trump's use of private planes.
Read on to find out everything Sanders had to say about his gas-guzzling choice of travel.
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Sanders Critiques Trump's Travel Habits
In response to Brett Baier's inquiry, Bernie Sanders retorted, "When's the last time you saw Donald Trump during a campaign mode at National Airport?"
He emphasized that Trump's campaign travel methods were not being scrutinized in the same way, prompting Baier to fire back that Trump's not the one who's "fighting the oligarchy."
Sanders Defends the Necessity of Private Jet Travel
Bernie Sanders went on to explain the practical necessity of private jet use during his rallies.
"You run a campaign and you do three or four [or] five rallies in a week, [it's] the only way you can get around to talk to 30,000 people," he said.
He argued that public airlines would not be a viable option, stating, "You think I'm going to be sitting on a waiting line at United while, what, 30,000 people are waiting around?"
"It's the only way you can get around. No apologies for that. That's what campaign travel is about," he added.
Sanders Discusses the Purpose of His Tour
When asked if his current tour — which includes rallies across the country with New York City Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — is resonating with voters frustrated with the current administration, Bernie Sanders expressed confidence in its message.
"I think at a time when the people on top are doing phenomenally, when seniors, working-class people are struggling, people want to hear action to stand up to the people who have the wealth and the power," he said.
Sanders reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for an economy that serves the majority rather than a select few.
Public Reactions
On social media, some users sympathized with Bernie Sanders, supporting his argument that private air travel is a necessity for campaigning, with one user sharing, "Bernie's right. You can't get to thousands of people without a quick way to travel."
Others, however, were critical, questioning the senator's alignment with the working class while using expensive private jets. One user posted, "Bernie fights for the working class but takes $200k flights. Doesn't add up."
