Colbert on ‘silent defiance’ of Jeffries at State of the Union: ‘Bold rebrand of doing jack squat’

The Hill

by Judy Kurtz

February 25, 2026

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Colbert on ‘silent defiance’ of Jeffries at State of the Union: ‘Bold rebrand of doing jack squat’

Stephen Colbert has criticized Hakeem Jeffries' approach during President Trump's State of the Union address, highlighting what he sees as a lack of boldness in countering the President. In a live episode of "The Late Show," Colbert mocked Jeffries for urging his fellow Democrats to remain restrained and avoid making a scene during the speech. This strategy, according to Colbert, exemplifies "silent defiance" or what he humorously referred to as a "bold rebrand of doing jack squat." The comment reflects a broader critique of how Jeffries chose to respond to Trump's address, suggesting that his approach was more about avoiding attention than actively opposing the President. Jeffries' decision to keep his members in check during the State of the Union has sparked debate among political commentators and analysts. Critics argue that this tactic may have been an attempt to maintain decorum and focus on legislative priorities rather than engaging in a public confrontation that could escalate tensions. However, it has also drawn criticism from those who feel that Democrats should have taken a more vocal stance against Trump's policies and rhetoric during the high-profile address. This matter is significant for readers interested in politics because it touches on broader questions about how opposition leaders balance strategy with public perception. Jeffries' approach raises issues of whether political effectiveness requires compromise or if overt resistance is necessary to garner attention and support. Colbert's critique highlights the tension between quiet diplomacy and public defiance, a dilemma that has long been debated in political circles. Understanding this dynamic helps shed light on the challenges faced by opposition leaders in navigating high-stakes political moments like the State of the Union address.

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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026