WASHINGTON – Democratic Senator Cory Booker delivered an impassioned 13-hour speech condemning President Donald Trump’s policies, arguing they threaten American democracy and violate constitutional principles.
Booker began speaking on the Senate floor at 7 p.m. on March 31 and was still going strong into the morning of April 1. His speech, reminiscent of the iconic scene from the 1939 film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, became a rallying cry for Democrats, despite not being a formal filibuster.
“I rise tonight because I believe sincerely that our country is in crisis,” Booker declared, his voice breaking with emotion. “These are not normal times in America, and they should not be treated as such.”
The senator from New Jersey criticized Trump’s sweeping budget cuts, particularly those pushed by his top advisor, billionaire Elon Musk, which have led to the elimination of government programs without congressional approval. Booker also warned of Trump’s escalating use of executive power, which he argued endangers the nation’s democratic institutions.
“Unnecessary hardships are being borne by Americans of all backgrounds,” Booker said. “Institutions that are unique and precious to our democracy are being recklessly attacked, even shattered.”
“In just 71 days, the president of the United States has inflicted so much harm on Americans’ safety, financial stability, and the core foundations of our democracy,” he added.
Although Booker’s speech did not formally obstruct Senate proceedings, it could delay legislative business when the chamber resumes on April 1. The Senate Press Gallery posted on X that the “next vote: TBA” (to be announced), hinting at potential disruptions.
In the latest segment of his marathon speech, Booker vowed to protect the Social Security Administration from potential budget cuts. “I tell you, I am going to fight for your Social Security, I’m going to fight to protect the agency, I’m going to fight against unnecessary cuts that hurt the service it provides,” he pledged.
Booker’s speech, while impressive, falls short of the longest in Senate history. That record remains with Senator Strom Thurmond, who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1957. More recently, Republican Senator Ted Cruz delivered a 21-hour speech in 2013 against the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare.
Booker’s fiery stand, however, has already solidified its place in the annals of political protests, igniting renewed energy among his party’s supporters.