Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) challenged Sen. Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt.) criticism of billionaire political spending, arguing that restricting political speech would benefit Democrats and media organizations he accused of favoring the left.
Mike Lee Defends Political Speech
On Saturday, Lee responded to Sanders’ post on X, in which the Vermont senator accused Elon Musk and other billionaires of trying to buy political influence ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
“We have a constitutional republic, not a democracy (yes, it matters),” he wrote.
“If you want less money in politics, limit the power of government,” he added.
Lee also argued that restricting political speech would undermine First Amendment protections and benefit Democrats.
“Circumventing the First Amendment to limit political speech would further empower the Leftist Media Cartel™, helping Democrats,” he wrote.
Sanders Warns Against Billionaire Influence
Sanders wrote on X, “Elon Musk and his fellow billionaires think they can buy our democracy. They are wrong. Together, we will defeat oligarchy.”
In his speech, Sanders accused billionaires of using their wealth to influence elections and cited Musk’s political spending in support of Republicans, which has been reported at roughly $366 million for the 2026 election cycle.
“Billionaires can no longer be allowed to buy elections. We need to have one person, one vote. That’s called democracy,” Sanders said.
He also called for a wealth tax on billionaires and stronger safeguards for artificial intelligence.
Democrats Target Trump Over Costs and Spending Priorities
Earlier this month, former Vice President Kamala Harris criticized Trump over rising costs and the Iran war, saying Americans struggled to afford essentials.
She wrote, “People are tired of having to choose between gas and groceries,” and urged voters to check what she called Trump’s “callous, corrupt, and incompetent administration.”
Last month, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi accused Republicans of favoring wealthy Americans while working families faced rising costs.
She criticized tax breaks for the wealthy and taxpayer spending on Trump’s Iran war, saying, “Republicans are making you pay more so the rich and powerful can cash in.”
In May, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) accused Trump of opposing funding for Medicaid and SNAP while supporting White House projects.
He wrote, “Apparently, we can afford anything — as long as it’s for Donald Trump.”
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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