Bernie Sanders’ Campaign Reportedly Spent Over $550K on Private Jet Travel in 2025
Federal filings show that Sen. Bernie Sanders’ campaign spent more than $550,000 on private jet travel in 2025, drawing attention to how the Vermont lawmaker traveled during a nationwide political tour with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
According to a review of Federal Election Commission (FEC) records, most of the travel costs occurred during the first half of the year — the same period Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez held multiple stops during their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour across the United States.
Luxury Jet Travel During Nationwide Tour
Records show that Sanders’ campaign paid at least $354,000 to Ventura Air Services, a company that operates high-end aircraft such as the Bombardier Challenger, which features a spacious cabin and premium amenities. Industry estimates suggest the aircraft can cost as much as $15,000 per flight hour.
Additional campaign funds were reportedly used for services through other aviation companies, including N-Jet and Cirrus Aviation Services.
During one April tour stop, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez were reportedly seen boarding a private jet in Bakersfield, California, before traveling to Sacramento for another rally later that same day.
Sanders Defends Private Jet Use
Sanders has previously addressed criticism about using private aircraft, arguing that the demanding schedule of campaign events makes commercial travel unrealistic.
“When you’re holding multiple rallies each week and speaking to tens of thousands of people, that’s the only practical way to travel,” Sanders said in a previous interview. He added that he has used private aircraft during past campaigns and expects similar travel in the future.
Environmental Debate Resurfaces
The spending has renewed debate due to Sanders’ strong support for environmental initiatives, including climate policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Private aviation has been heavily criticized by environmental advocates, with some studies suggesting private jets produce significantly higher emissions per passenger compared to commercial flights.
Ocasio-Cortez has also previously criticized corporate reliance on private jets, adding further attention to the campaign’s travel expenses.
Hotel Spending Also Draws Scrutiny
FEC filings show that Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign also spent over $53,000 in 2025 on accommodations during the tour, including stays at boutique and luxury hotels in cities such as Tucson, Salt Lake City, Pasadena, San Juan, and Burlington.
Campaign Response
Representatives for both Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez were contacted regarding the spending but did not provide comment at the time of reporting.
Sanders, who previously spent nearly $2 million on private jet travel during his 2020 presidential campaign, has long defended such expenses as necessary for national campaign logistics.