Democrats Take to the Streets Against Trump’s State of the Union
In Washington, a Democratic counter-event to President Trump’s State of the Union address took an unexpected turn with attendees dressed as frogs, alongside MAGA supporters.
On Tuesday night, various activists and political figures hosted competing events. Some speakers aimed to entertain, while others intended to gear up the audience for the upcoming midterm elections. There were also pointed criticisms aimed at President Trump, with accusations of dishonesty filling the air.
Senator Chris Murphy from Connecticut highlighted his absence from the official address, stating, “I’m not going to hear about the State of the Union. I’m going to hear lie after lie after lie,” while participating in the People’s State of the Union rally on the National Mall.
Meanwhile, at the National Press Club, the atmosphere was quite different. Adults in frog costumes filled the venue, sporting whimsical frog hats that lightened the mood.
The crowd cheered for speakers like actor Robert De Niro, who wrapped up the “State of the Swamp” event by calling out President Trump, likening him to an abusive partner and a dictator.
De Niro shared his feelings openly, saying, “In this current climate, declaring love for our country is like an abused spouse professing love for her abuser.” He lamented, “We are now in a country by and for a handful of dishonest, greedy and cruel authoritarians,” eliciting support from the audience.
This four-hour event blended entertainment with a thematic rally. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey—known for his sharp remarks about ICE—sought to inspire attendees ahead of the elections, encouraging them to reclaim patriotism and engage politically.
Other attendees included artist Robbie Roadsteemer, who donned a unique cow outfit and shared tales of being apprehended by ICE agents.
Miles Taylor, a former Trump aide who authored the controversial “Anonymous” op-ed, organized the “Swamp State” event. He explained the frog imagery, suggesting that “Who better to navigate a swamp than a creature born in a swamp? A frog.” Taylor also pointed out that frogs have become symbols of resistance, particularly in Portland, where they were used to protest Trump’s description of demonstrators.
Democratic representatives also took to the House floor to express their protests, wearing pins linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case and demanding support for survivors. Some engaged in louder confrontations, such as Representative Ilhan Omar, who clashed verbally with Trump, condemning him for “murdering Americans.” Trump retorted, telling her, “You should be ashamed of yourself.”
On the National Mall, around 20 Democrats and a large crowd gathered for an event. During Murphy’s speech, a Trump supporter interrupted, prompting two individuals to escort him away.
“Thank you, buddy,” Murphy acknowledged the intervention as the atmosphere shifted.
Former MSNBC anchor Joy Reid addressed the disruptions more bluntly, saying, “Attention all MAGA trolls, your bulls are not welcome here. Damn, guys.”
