New Jersey senator surpasses 68-year-old record in symbolic protest against Trump’s policies
Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) has set a new record for the longest speech ever delivered on the Senate floor, surpassing 24 hours and 18 minutes in a marathon address against President Donald Trump’s policies. Beginning at 7 PM ET on Monday, Booker pledged to speak as long as he was “physically able.”
At 7:19 PM ET on Tuesday, Booker officially broke the 68-year-old record held by the late South Carolina Senator Strom Thurmond. However, unlike a traditional filibuster, Booker’s speech is not blocking specific legislation. Instead, he is using the platform to highlight what he describes as a “crisis” in America, condemning Trump’s policies, proposed healthcare cuts, and reforms led by figures like Elon Musk.
Booker: “This country is in crisis”
“This country is in crisis,” Booker declared, warning of threats to Americans’ safety, financial security, and democratic values.
Throughout the speech, Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have supported Booker by engaging in discussions and making brief appearances on the Senate floor. Despite clear signs of exhaustion, Booker remains resolute, emphasizing the growing pressure on Democrats to challenge Trump’s second-term agenda.
Following his record-breaking speech, Senator Chuck Schumer congratulated Booker, prompting applause in the Senate chamber.
Thurmond’s 1957 filibuster: A fight against civil rights
The previous record was set by Senator Strom Thurmond in 1957 when he spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in an attempt to block the Civil Rights Act of 1957. The bill aimed to strengthen voting rights for African Americans and address racial discrimination.
Thurmond, a staunch segregationist from South Carolina, argued that the legislation infringed on states’ rights and was part of broader federal efforts to dismantle segregation. Despite his prolonged protest, the filibuster failed, and the bill passed with bipartisan support, marking an early victory for the Civil Rights Movement.