In a dramatic act of resistance, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) delivered an all-night speech on the Senate floor, condemning key aspects of former President Donald Trump’s policy agenda. The marathon speech, which lasted for hours into the early morning, was part of a broader Democratic effort to rally opposition against the administration’s initiatives.
After 24 hours non-stop, Booker now holds the record — surpassing Strom Thurmond for the longest Senate speech on record.
In his stirring speech, he emphasized that the US had reached a “moral moment” that required a stand against the Trump administration, which he said had brought the United States to a moment of “crisis” barely two months after the president returned to office.
“My voice is inadequate,” Mr. Booker said more than 19 hours into the speech. “My efforts today are inadequate to stop what they’re trying to do. But we the people are powerful.”
Booker, known for his impassioned oratory, focused on issues such as healthcare, immigration, and voting rights—areas where he argued Trump’s policies had caused significant harm to vulnerable communities. “We cannot remain silent while policies are being enacted that strip people of their rights, their dignity, and their opportunities,” Booker declared during his speech.
A Call to Action
Throughout the night, Booker highlighted personal stories from constituents and Americans affected by Trump-era policies. He criticized the administration’s attempts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, calling it a “reckless” move that would leave millions without healthcare. On immigration, Booker denounced the family separation policies at the U.S.-Mexico border, describing them as “a moral failure of our nation.”
“I tell you, I’m gonna fight to protect your Social Security. I’m gonna fight to protect the agency,’ Booker stressed.“I’m gonna stand as long as I can and read stories like this because you are seen. You are heard. Your voices are more important than any of the 100 of us.”
The speech, reminiscent of past filibuster-like protests, was not technically a filibuster, as no legislation was immediately pending. However, it served as a symbolic gesture to galvanize opposition and energize grassroots activists ahead of upcoming legislative battles.
“In just 71 days, the president of the United States has inflicted so much harm on Americans’ safety; financial stability; the core foundations of our democracy,” Booker said on the floor. “These are not normal times in America. And they should not be treated as such in the United States Senate.”
Support and Backlash
Booker’s extended speech drew support from fellow Democrats, with some senators joining him intermittently to share their perspectives. Progressive activists praised his efforts, seeing them as a much-needed stand against policies they argue disproportionately harm marginalized communities.
However, Republican lawmakers dismissed the speech as political grandstanding. “This is nothing more than a publicity stunt,” said Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC). “The American people want solutions, not all-night speeches.”
A History of Senate Marathons
While rare, extended speeches have been used in the Senate to make political statements. Notably, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) gave an eight-hour speech in 2010 opposing tax cuts, and Senator Strom Thurmond (D-SC) famously filibustered the Civil Rights Act for over 24 hours in 1957.
What’s Next?
Booker’s speech underscored Democratic resistance to Trump’s policies and set the stage for continued battles in Congress. While unlikely to change Republican positions, it served as a rallying cry for those pushing back against the former president’s legacy.
As we write this, Booker has been speaking on the Senate floor for more than 12 hours.