Democrats Signal Protest of Trump’s State of the Union Address
Several Democratic lawmakers are planning to boycott President Trump’s State of the Union address next Tuesday, opting instead to participate in counter-programming events near the U.S. Capitol. The move comes as a demonstration of opposition to the President and his policies, with at least 12 Democrats publicly announcing their intention to skip the address as of Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The planned boycott is coupled with a rally organized by Democrats, intended to highlight the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on communities across the country. This “People’s State of the Union” aims to provide an alternative platform for discussing issues Democrats believe are not adequately addressed in the President’s speech.
The decision to abstain from the State of the Union is not universal among Democrats. While a significant number are choosing to protest, others are expected to attend, maintaining a presence in the House Chamber. The split reflects the ongoing internal debate within the party regarding the most effective way to challenge the Trump administration.
According to reports, the counter-programming events are designed to draw attention to concerns regarding healthcare, economic inequality, and social justice – issues Democrats frequently emphasize as priorities. The rally will provide a space for lawmakers to connect directly with constituents and amplify their voices.
The 2018 State of the Union Address, delivered on January 30, 2018, provides historical context to the current situation. That address, Trump’s first official State of the Union, was watched by 45.6 million viewers and generated 21 million interactions on social media. Paul Ryan, then Speaker of the House, presided over the joint session, alongside Vice President Mike Pence in his role as President of the Senate. U.S. Representative Joe Kennedy III and Virginia Delegate Elizabeth Guzmán delivered the Democratic response in English and Spanish, respectively.
Article II, Section 3, Clause 1 of the United States Constitution mandates that the President “shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.” The State of the Union address remains a significant opportunity for the President to outline his legislative agenda and address the nation.
The upcoming boycott echoes past instances of political protest surrounding the State of the Union. While the tradition of a presidential address to Congress dates back to George Washington, instances of lawmakers choosing to abstain from attending have become more frequent in recent decades, particularly during periods of heightened political polarization.
The planned absence of multiple Democratic lawmakers underscores the deep divisions that continue to characterize the political landscape. The counter-programming events suggest a deliberate effort to frame an alternative narrative to the President’s message and mobilize opposition to his policies. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for political influence and the challenges facing the Trump administration as it navigates a divided Congress.
The House Chamber, located at 38°53′19.8″N 77°00′32.8″W in Washington, D.C., will be the site of the address. The event is expected to draw significant media attention, with the Democratic boycott adding another layer of complexity to the proceedings.
