Booker's Epic 12+ Hour Senate Stand: Is This the New Filibuster?

2025-04-01 12:03:19.007

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker staged a marathon speech on the Senate floor, lasting overnight into Tuesday morning, to protest actions taken by President Donald Trump’s administration. He vowed to continue "as long as I am physically able." The Democratic senator spoke for more than 12 hours, starting at 7 p.m. ET Monday, amid pressure on Democratic leaders to more forcefully oppose Trump. Booker, a member of the Senate Democratic leadership team, stated his intention to "disrupt the normal business of the United States Senate" because he believes the country is in crisis. He cited harm inflicted on Americans' safety, financial stability, and democracy in Trump's first 71 days in office. While not a filibuster (he wasn't blocking legislation), his speech kept the Senate floor open. Booker highlighted potential Medicaid cuts by Republicans, invoking the late Sen. John McCain and his 2017 healthcare vote. He emotionally warned against repeating past mistakes. Booker took questions from colleagues, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who praised his "strength and conviction." Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester also engaged, mentioning a pre-speech prayer. The speech follows a tradition of marathon speeches in the Senate, though Strom Thurmond's 24-hour-plus record remains unbroken.