House Democrats are preparing a variety of responses to President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address, signaling that the annual speech could become a high-profile moment of protest amid deep partisan tensions.
The address comes as Washington grapples with a partial shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security, with Democrats and the White House at odds over proposed reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. The standoff intensified after immigration agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens in Minnesota, further inflaming debate over enforcement policies.
Some Democratic lawmakers are planning a subdued form of protest by skipping the speech altogether. Others have indicated they may stage more visible demonstrations, including walking out mid-address or bringing guests whose personal stories highlight what they describe as the real-world consequences of Trump’s policies.
Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) suggested he may leave the chamber during the speech, saying he expects to reach a point where he feels compelled to walk out. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.) also signaled he is considering some form of protest, criticizing what he described as corruption, unconstitutional actions and damaging foreign policy decisions by the president.
Several Democrats plan to use invited guests to underscore their message. Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) said she will bring a constituent who operates a nonprofit daycare and advocates for the Affordable Care Act, framing the invitation as a way to spotlight concerns over child care and health coverage. A spokesperson for Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.) said she will also host a guest affected by health care challenges, describing the speech as an opportunity to amplify stories of families struggling under current policies.