Large Turnout for “Tax the Rich” Rally in the Bronx

A substantial number of left-leaning supporters gathered for a “Tax the Rich” rally featuring Senator Bernie Sanders in the Bronx on Sunday. Interestingly, Mayor Zoran Mamdani didn’t participate, as he navigates a complex relationship with Governor Hochul regarding tax policies.

Over 1,000 attendees filled the performing arts center at Lehman College, where Sanders, an independent senator from Vermont, discussed his proposal aimed at the wealthy for nearly an hour.

He pointed out a glaring disparity in tax contributions: “A few years ago, the average American truck driver paid an effective tax rate of 8.4%, while Elon Musk, the richest man alive, was estimated to have an effective tax rate of less than 3.3%.” The crowd responded with discontented boos and chants of “Shame, shame!”

Sanders said, “That’s what the mayor of New York is fighting for,” emphasizing the need for a fair tax system. He argued, “Across the country, in New York state, and right here in New York City, Americans are demanding that those who have the most start paying their fair share.”

His proposal includes a 5% additional tax on individuals with assets exceeding $1 billion, which aligns with Mamdani’s push for a 2% surcharge on New Yorkers earning over $1 million—a measure he has been urging Hochul to approve since he assumed office in January.

However, Hochul has strongly opposed such a bill, creating a tense situation between the state’s leading figures as the June budget deadline approaches, alongside November elections.

This dynamic was evident on Sunday when Mamdani opted not to join Sanders on stage, instead sending aides to represent him.

Sanders expressed a pressing need for Hochul to consider the residents’ plight, stating, “The people of this city, the people of this state, the people of this country don’t want to see children go hungry. They don’t want to see people camping out on the streets without medical care.” He urged, “They want the very rich to start paying their fair share of taxes,” hoping the governor would align with the public’s desire.

The last couple of months have seen a mix of tension and cooperation between Mamdani and government officials.

Shortly after Hochul allocated over $1 billion to New York City in February to help with the budget deficit, Mamdani threatened nearly 10% property tax increases unless a tax on the wealthy was implemented. Yet, he has also shown support for Hochul, who is preparing for re-election, and many state lawmakers back the bill. Some speculate he might wait for her to solidify her position before endorsing the controversial tax measure.

Supporters who gathered for the rally pushed their agenda directly to Hochul rather than Sanders. Bronx resident Roushon Sharker, 52, remarked, “I want to say to Governor Hochul, you are governor because of these people. These people voted for you.”

Sharker emphasized that Mamdani is trying to serve basic needs and rights, advocating for universal childcare and housing.

City DSA Co-Chair Grace Moser also addressed the crowd, stating that Hochul, as a public servant, has a responsibility to listen. “The people of New York want to pay their taxes and get rich. So if she wants to stay in office, she should,” Moser added.

Interestingly, some participants were unfazed by Mamdani’s absence. DSA co-chair Gustavo Gordillo mentioned, “We have a history of working on an inside-outside strategy. We’re here to build a movement to compel the governor to tax the wealthy, which aligns with what the mayor desires.”

Gordillo concluded by challenging Hochul to choose a side: “Do you stand with the working class of New York or do you stand with the billionaires and the 1%?”