Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez “AOC” due Tuesday afternoon
Drivers in Folsom should brace for widespread traffic delays and road closures this Tuesday, as thousands are expected to descend on the city for a large-scale political rally presented by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and featuring Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at Folsom Lake College.
City and campus officials say traffic congestion is expected to begin early in the afternoon and continue into the evening hours as the high-profile national “Fighting Oligarchy” tour makes its Northern California stop at the college’s outdoor athletic field. The event is free and open to the public, with gates opening at 3:30 p.m. and the speaking program scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
According to a traffic advisory issued by the Folsom Police Department and the Los Rios Police Department, significant traffic congestion is expected along East Bidwell Street, Scholar Way, and adjacent streets. The city is advising drivers to plan ahead, use alternate routes, and expect delays through at least 9 p.m.
Temporary road closures will be in effect, including Scholar Way between East Bidwell Street and Silberhorn Drive, and Cavitt Drive between Scholar Way and Lothian Way. These streets will remain closed to through traffic until the conclusion of the event. Local access will be limited, and parking in nearby residential neighborhoods will be restricted to residents only. Drivers are asked to obey all posted signage and to avoid blocking driveways or private access points.
Law enforcement agencies will also be closely monitoring the area as several groups are reportedly planning a variety of demonstrations in response to the event, some of which are expected near the college and along East Bidwell Street. While police did not elaborate on the nature of the demonstrations, they advised the public to remain aware of their surroundings and follow any temporary detours or instructions from officers at the scene.
Folsom Police, working in coordination with Los Rios Police and the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, will be present throughout the day to manage traffic flow, maintain public safety, and support security needs.
Tuesday’s event marks a last-minute venue change for the Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez tour, which was initially scheduled to be held at the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn. Due to overwhelming RSVP numbers and space limitations, the tour team relocated the event to Folsom Lake College.
Over the last several days, similar events held in Southern California have drawn large crowds, adding to expectations of significant turnout in Folsom. Folsom Mayor Sarah Aquino noted in a social media comment that city officials have been told to anticipate up to 10,000 attendees. Security and traffic plans have been developed swiftly between local agencies to prepare for the influx.
“We are happy to provide this service for our community partners,” said Kristy Hart of Folsom Lake College. “We are very happy to serve our civic duty as well.” Hart emphasized that all logistical and planning responsibilities are being handled by the Sanders tour team and not the college itself.
The event is part of a national campaign by Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez focused on economic inequality and corporate influence in government. The “Fighting Oligarchy” tour has made headlines across the country for targeting figures such as former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, accusing them of undermining public sector jobs and eroding democratic accountability.
“Over the course of the next few weeks, I’ll be hitting the road to have real discussions across America on how we move forward to take on the oligarchs and corporate interests who have so much power and influence in this country,” Sanders said in announcing the tour.
As with other stops on the tour, Tuesday’s event in Folsom will focus on issues such as economic justice, labor rights, and increased political participation. Although attendance is free, participants must RSVP in advance through the tour’s official website.
Those planning to attend should note several security restrictions. Bags, signs, and firearms are not allowed. Outside food and beverages will also not be permitted, though free water will be provided. Six food trucks will also be onsite for food purchases,
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets for seating on the athletic field. Free parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on the college campus, though spaces are expected to fill quickly. Overflow parking may be available on nearby streets where permitted.
The event is expected to wrap up by 9 p.m., road closures will be lifted accordingly, once normal traffic flow will resume, according to the Folsom Police Department.
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