More than a dozen Democrats plan to skip Trump's State of the Union for counterprogramming
The president is set to give the annual address to Congress on Tuesday, Feb. 24, which is a televised speech delivered at the Capitol, which is open to all lawmakers from both chambers and their guests.
By Misty Severi
Published: February 18, 2026 9:07pm
More than a dozen Democratic members of Congress are reportedly expected to skip President Donald Trump's annual State of the Union address next week to attend counterprograms, including an event on the National Mall.
The president is set to give the annual address to Congress on Tuesday, Feb. 24, which is a televised speech delivered at the Capitol, which is open to all lawmakers from both chambers and their guests.
The largest event that will serve as a "counterprogam" to Trump's speech will be hosted by progressive groups MoveOn and MeidasTouch. Dubbed the "People’s State of the Union," the rally will take place on the National Mall at 8:30 p.m.
The event will feature a dozen Democratic senators and lawmakers along with “everyday Americans most impacted by Trump’s dangerous agenda,” according to a MoveOn press release.
Speakers include Democratic Sens. Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Jeff Merkley of Oregon, Chris Murphy of Connecticut, Tina Smith of Minnesota and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland.
Democratic House lawmakers include Reps. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, Delia Ramirez of Illinois, Greg Casar of Texas and Becca Balint of Vermont, among others.
Another half dozen Democrats are scheduled to attend an event at the National Press Club titled “State of the Swamp.” The lawmakers include Reps. Eric Swalwell of California, Jason Crow of Colorado, Dan Goldman of New York, Seth Moulton of Massachusetts and Eugene Vindman of Virginia. Democratic Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden will also be there.
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https://justthenews.com/government/congress/more-dozen-democrats-plan-attend-skip-trumps-state-union-counterprogramming
