Trump set to address the nation as dozens of Democrats say they'll boycott - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Ana Ceballos, Gavin J. QuintonFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address has become a focal point of political division as over 30 Democrats have vowed to boycott the event, signaling their rejection of his agenda and message. Instead, many are planning alternative events to counteract Trump’s narrative. California Senator Alex Padilla, who will deliver the Spanish-language response, emphasized that the speech would likely be filled with falsehoods, contrasting it with what he described as the truth they aim to convey.
The boycott reflects growing Democratic resistance to Trump’s leadership, particularly among lawmakers who view his policies and rhetoric as harmful. Some Democrats are inviting guests affected by Trump’s actions, such as Annie Farmer and Haley Robson, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, to highlight issues like the president’s refusal to release Epstein-related files. Meanwhile, Trump is expected to focus on economic successes and immigration enforcement, while also appealing to his religious base. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that Trump will bring attention to a “revival of faith” by having Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, attend the address.
The address also comes amid broader tensions over Trump’s decision-making without congressional approval, particularly regarding tariffs and military actions. This has created divisions within his own party, with House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledging the challenges in finding consensus on these issues. Additionally, Trump’s consideration of a military attack on Iran has drawn criticism from Democrats like Sen. Adam Schiff, who argue that such actions require congressional approval.
The State of the Union provides a critical moment to assess the political landscape as Trump begins his second term and Republicans aim to maintain control of Congress ahead of the midterm elections. The event highlights deepening partisan divisions and the ongoing struggles between the executive branch and Congress over policy decisions. For readers interested in news, this speech offers insight into Trump’s priorities and the broader tensions shaping U.S. politics.
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026