Sanders praised the band for “standing up for economic justice, fighting racism, understanding that healthcare is a human right”
Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a surprise appearance to introduce The Strokes at their huge hometown show in New York City last night (October 2).
The New York indie icons were playing a one-off show at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, with Beach House, TV On The Radio and Fcukers also on the bill.
The Strokes brought out AOC and Bernie Sanders tonight in NYC pic.twitter.com/Ha3KGw57Ah
— Mike Tee (@ItsMikeTee) October 3, 2026
Before The Strokes took to the stage, Ocasio-Cortez appeared in front of the crowd and declared that “the greatest city in the world is now welcoming the greatest rock band of our generation”, before bringing out Sanders.
The Vermont senator then praised the band for “standing up for economic justice, fighting racism, understanding that healthcare is a human right”.
He also urged those in attendance to take part in November’s elections, telling the crowd that “we have all got to get out to vote”, and spoke about opposing authoritarianism.
