More than 500 people packed into Observatory North Park theater on July 29 to be part of a record-breaking digital broadcast by Sen. Bernie Sanders, a Democratic presidential candidate.

More than 3,500 viewing events were held concurrently across the U.S. to hear a stump speech by Sanders. The San Diego event changed venues three times as the RSVPs swelled, according to North Park resident Aaron Truax, who co-produced the event with Maia Tagami. They have no official ties with the candidate.

“I’m thrilled by the enthusiasm I’ve seen from San Diegans. Sanders’ message resonates strongly here and in many communities across the country. He’s the only presidential candidate who’s taking an active stance against the billionaire class, and standing up for wage earners. He wants money out of politics, and he means it,” Truax said.

“Further, Sanders has always stood for equality, even before it was cool. He marched in the civil rights movement. He fought for marriage equality 40 years ago. He believes basic health care and education are fundamental rights. That’s why he’s loved. He’s the champion for us, the 99%.”

All photos by Noa Azoulay of Feather Love Photography