Watch live: Democrats protest Trump with ‘People’s State of the Union’ on National Mall
The Hill
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump is set to deliver his first State of the Union address of his second term tonight at around 9 p.m. EST. In response, Democrats have organized a counterprogramming event called the "People’s State of the Union" on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., as a form of protest against Trump's policies and agenda. This move highlights the growing divide between the two political parties and underscores the significance of this moment in American politics.
The Democrats’ event, which will take place simultaneously with Trump’s address, aims to shift focus away from his speech and instead amplify their own priorities and criticisms of his administration. Speakers at the counter-event include Democratic members of Congress such as Reps. Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Rashall崇-Butler, as well as prominent activists like Tamika Mallory and Mariah Simpson. The event will address key issues such as healthcare, workers' rights, immigration reform, climate change, and gun control, reflecting the broader concerns of progressive Democrats.
This counterprogramming is not just a symbolic gesture but a strategic move to energize their base and challenge Trump’s messaging. It also marks a continuation of the Democratic resistance against Trump’s policies, which has been a defining feature of his presidency. By organizing this event, Democrats hope to
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026