Bernie Sanders holds rally in Sacramento

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- It may be an uphill battle for the Democratic nomination, but that didn't stop Bernie Sanders from holding a rally at Bonnie Field in Sacramento Monday.

Sanders is the third and final presidential candidate to visit California in recent weeks, after Hillary Clinton stopped in Oakland last week and Donald Trump spoke in Burlingame the week before.

Sanders greeted the crowd with his usual enthusiasm Monday afternoon. Touching on subjects like global warming and income inequality, while also attacking rivals Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.

"If you want to make absolutely certain we have an energetic grassroots campaign which results in a large voter turnout-- this is the campaign," said Sanders.

Thousands of people stood in line to get into Bonney Field since early morning. Among the crowd-- supporters from the Central Valley.

"This is the first politician who's really for the people and has their best interest in mind," said Kirsten Robinson, Bernie Sanders' supporter.

Many young followers credit Sanders for their new-found interest in politics. Spurring them to make the long drive to the state capital to see him speak.

"Knowing that health care is a right and not a privilege, I think that's been the biggest thing. On top of that, definitely having free education for students," said Robinson.

But the math hasn't been on the candidate's side. The Vermont senator needs about 1000 more delegates-- while Clinton needs fewer than 200.

Sanders has remained defiant in the face of his odds and spent Monday convincing his supporters to do the same.

"I think people just need to do their research. Look at what's important to you and your family. You are going to find that where your interests lie is what Bernie stands for," said Robinson.

Sanders will also be making another appearance in Stockton Tuesday before wrapping up his trip in California.