How Democrats reorganized their State of the Union resistance
Vox
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Democrats have significantly revamped their approach to countering President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, marking a shift from last year’s disorganized response. This time, they maintained a unified front inside the Capitol, largely remaining silent during Trump’s speech and avoiding applause. Their main focus was on pressing demands such as releasing the Epstein files and addressing immigration enforcement issues, with survivors and family members of those affected by ICE violence testifying in person.
Outside the Capitol, Democrats amplified their message through two major counterprogramming events. The first, the “People’s State of the Union,” featured a three-and-a-half-hour rally on the National Mall, streamed online by MeidasTouch. Attendees included politicians and celebrities like Robert De Niro and Mark Ruffalo, aiming to appeal to disengaged voters. The event highlighted issues such as Epstein’s crimes, ICE violence, and rising tariffs, with speakers emphasizing demands for justice and accountability.
Meanwhile, another event, the “State of the Swamp,” was organized by Defiance.org at the National Press Club. This more humorous gathering featuredNever Trump luminaries and former Republicans, with a focus on rebutting Trump’s address through live commentary. Media partnerships with outlets like Courier helped expand their reach, ensuring Democrats’ messages reached millions across platforms.
These events reflect Democrats’ strategic pivot to leveraging alternative media ecosystems and grassroots organizing to counter Trump’s agenda. By creating viral content and coordinating across multiple platforms, they aim to reclaim the political narrative and engage voters disillusioned by Trump’s policies. This approach underscores the growing importance of digital media in shaping public perception and political discourse, particularly under Trump’s second administration.
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Originally published on Vox on 2/25/2026