House Democrat on State of the Union boycotts: Trump ‘has had total disregard for Congress’
The Hill
by Ashleigh FieldsFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Ami Bera (D-Calif.) criticized President Trump’s disregard for Congress as the reason behind the decision by some Democrats to boycott his State of the Union address. During an interview on NewsNation’s “On Balance,” Bera asserted that Trump has shown a total lack of deference toward the legislative branch, stating, “He totally disregards Congress.” This sentiment reflects growing tensions between the White House and Capitol Hill, with Democrats arguing that Trump’s actions undermine the separation of powers and Congress’s role in governing.
The decision to boycott the State of the Union is not unprecedented but has become more prominent under the Trump administration. Historically, political disagreements have led members of Congress to skip such addresses, though this year’s boycott by Democrats has been particularly significant due to its scale and the high-profile nature of the event. Bera’s comments highlight a broader trend of partisan divisions in Washington, where cooperation between the executive branch and Congress has become increasingly rare.
This issue matters to politics enthusiasts because it underscores the ongoing struggle for power and influence within the federal government. The boycott serves as a symbolic act of resistance against what Democrats view as Trump’s overreach, while Republicans argue that such actions are disruptive and unproductive. As the 2020 election approaches, these tensions are likely to intensify, making the relationship between Congress and the White House a critical factor in shaping the political landscape.
The debate over the State of the Union boycott also reflects deeper concerns about the state of democracy in the United States. Critics argue that Trump’s disregard for traditional norms and his administration’s policies have eroded trust in government institutions. By choosing to skip the address, Democrats are signaling their determination to push back against what they see as an erosion of democratic principles.
In conclusion, Rep. Ami Bera’s comments on Trump’s
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/24/2026