Pelosi explains white buttons at State of the Union address
The Hill
by Ashleigh FieldsFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Nancy Pelosi, former Speaker of the House, sharply criticized President Trump during his State of the Union address for failing to acknowledge the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein. During the speech, women in attendance wore white buttons bearing the message “release the…,” symbolizing their demand for justice and accountability for years of abuse at the hands of the convicted sex offender. Pelosi’s criticism highlighted the glaring omission of this critical issue from Trump’s address, drawing attention to the broader implications of Epstein’s influence and the need for transparency.
Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender, has long been a polarizing figure in American politics and society. His victims, many of whom were young women, have faced decades of silence and abuse. The #MeToo movement has brought renewed attention to his crimes, but survivors continue to advocate for justice, including the release of documents tied to Epstein’s legal settlements and interactions with powerful figures. These white buttons served as a visual reminder of their ongoing struggle and the broader fight against sexual misconduct.
The issue is significant in the context of political accountability and justice. By ignoring the survivors during his address, Trump missed an opportunity to address the concerns of victims and the public at large. Pelosi’s criticism underscores the importance of acknowledging such issues in high-profile platforms like the State of the Union, where major societal concerns are typically addressed. This moment also highlights the ongoing tension between political optics and genuine efforts to support survivors of abuse.
The incident reflects a larger conversation about how leaders handle cases of sexual misconduct and the pressure for transparency in government. As Epstein’s victims continue to speak out, their advocacy has gained momentum, challenging those in power to take meaningful action. The presence of the white buttons during Trump’s speech symbolizes the persistent demand for justice and the need for leaders to address these issues head-on.
In a political climate where scandals and misconduct often dominate headlines, this moment serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability. For readers interested in politics, understanding how leaders respond to such crises
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026