Bernie Sanders campaigns with Graham Platner and Troy Jackson in Orono

AUGUSTA — U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders brought his "Fight Oligarchy" tour to Maine this week, appearing alongside state legislative leaders to advocate for increased taxation on the nation's wealthiest individuals.

The Vermont independent, who caucuses with Democrats, was joined by Maine Senate President Troy Jackson and House Speaker Graham Platner at a rally framed around addressing wealth inequality. The event formed part of a broader swing through several states intended to build public pressure for federal tax reforms targeting billionaires.

Sanders has long argued that the current tax code allows the ultra-wealthy to pay a lower effective rate than working-class Americans. His proposal centers on establishing a wealth tax and raising marginal income tax rates for top earners, with revenue directed toward social programs including expanded healthcare, education, and climate initiatives.

Jackson and Platner echoed the senator's themes, linking federal tax policy to the economic pressures facing Maine households. Both leaders have supported state-level measures aimed at tax fairness, though the focus of Wednesday's appearance remained on congressional action.

The tour continues a years-long effort by Sanders to make wealth taxation a central issue in Democratic politics. Previous iterations of the legislation have stalled in Congress, facing unified Republican opposition and resistance from some centrist Democrats.

Organizers did not release attendance figures. The senator's office indicated additional tour dates would be announced in the coming weeks.