In a surprising twist at Coachella 2025, Senator Bernie Sanders made a notable appearance that captivated festival-goers.
On the vibrant Saturday of April 12, the 83-year-old independent from Vermont took to the stage at the renowned Indio, California festival to introduce the talented artist Clairo while delivering a passionate and politically charged address that resonated with the audience.
Addressing the assembled crowd, Sanders emphasized the pressing challenges facing the nation, stating, “This country faces some very difficult challenges, and the future of what happens to America is dependent upon your generation.” According to Time, he urged the younger audience, “Now you can turn away and ignore what goes on, but if you do that, you do so at your own peril. We need you to stand up and fight for justice, to fight for economic justice, social justice, and racial justice.”
At a pivotal moment during his speech, when Sanders mentioned the “President of the United States,” the audience erupted in boos. Sanders responded with a candid agreement, signifying a shared sentiment among the crowd.
The seasoned politician did not hold back in criticizing President Donald Trump regarding his stance on climate change. “[Trump] thinks that climate change is a hoax. He’s dangerously wrong,” the senator stated emphatically. “And you and I are going to have to stand up to the fossil fuel industry and tell them to stop destroying this planet.”
Sanders also shed light on pressing issues like wealth inequality and the overwhelming power of corporations. “We have an economy today that is working very well for the billionaire class, but not for working families,” he noted. He called for immediate action against insurance and pharmaceutical companies, asserting that “Healthcare is a human right,” highlighting the urgent need for systemic reform in the healthcare sector.
The senator took a moment to commend Clairo for her impactful advocacy. “I’m here because Clairo has used her prominence to fight for women’s rights, to try to end the terrible, brutal war in Gaza, where thousands of women and children are being killed,” he stated, underscoring the intersection of music and activism.
Reflecting on his experience later that evening, Sanders shared a photo from the stage on X, expressing gratitude: “Thank you, Coachella. I enjoyed introducing the great @clairo tonight.” He emphasized the importance of youth engagement, stating, “These are tough times. The younger generation has to help lead in the fight to combat climate change, protect women’s rights, and build an economy that works for all, not just the few.”
Earlier that day, Sanders made an appearance at Gloria Molina Grand Park in Los Angeles as part of his ongoing “Fighting Oligarchy: Where We Go From Here” tour, which he co-hosted with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. This vibrant event also featured performances from renowned artists such as Neil Young, Joan Baez, and Maggie Rogers, showcasing a powerful coalition for change.
The Sanders-AOC tour has attracted thousands of passionate supporters at rallies across states like Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah. During a March 7 event in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Sanders invited musician Laura Jane Grace to the stage, where she performed a provocative new song titled “Your God (God’s D—),” which ignited controversy online due to its bold lyrics and religious themes.
