Democrats Plan to Boycott Trump’s State of the Union Address
In Washington, many Democrats are planning to skip President Trump’s State of the Union address. This comes amidst a backdrop of opposing rallies and mounting pressure from party leadership.
This situation conjures memories of last year’s chaotic scene, where Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) was removed from the House while fellow Democrats showcased political signs in protest.
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pennsylvania, expressed his hope that this year wouldn’t mirror last year’s events, remarking, “That was a real lack of decency.” He emphasized the need to respect the Oval Office, stating, “You don’t have to like the person, but we should be better than that.”
Key figures in the Democratic Party, such as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), are expected to attend the address.
Jeffries explained, “We’re not going to Donald Trump’s house. He’s coming to our house. My idea is not to let anyone kick me off my block.” Rather than abandoning the event, Democrats plan to invite guests and remain present as a form of protest.
For instance, Schumer will host Liza Contreras, a mother from the Bronx whose family was affected by immigration enforcement. Her son was detained after a court appearance.
Additionally, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) has invited Aliya Rahman, who was recently detained in Minneapolis, as her guest.
On the Republican side, guests reflecting Trump’s policies will be present. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) has invited the daughter of a Uyghur doctor held in China and Hanan Lisinski, whose brother was killed while working at the Israeli embassy.
Multiple Rebuttals Planned
Democrats are also preparing various responses to Trump’s speech, providing different perspectives within the party. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger (D) will deliver the main rebuttal, while Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) will present a version in Spanish. Additionally, Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pennsylvania) will offer a more progressive viewpoint.
Among the many events planned, speakers at an alternative gathering include Reps. Yasamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), Becca Balint (D-Vermont), and Pramila Jayapal (D-Washington), among others.
In another response, “Swamp State” will feature Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and several House members, including Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.).
Notably, several public figures outside of Congress will join in, including Don Lemon and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (D).
Some Democratic representatives, like Sean Kasten (D-Ill.) and Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), have indicated they will skip the address entirely, although their plans for alternative events remain unclear.
Kasten voiced his discontent, stating, “My respect for the office of the President cannot stand the disrespect Donald Trump shows for the office every day.” He plans to watch the address from a different location.
Trump has hinted that his speech will be lengthy as he aims to solidify Republican support ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. “I’m going to give a speech tomorrow night, but it’s going to be long because I have a lot to say,” he remarked.
