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New Jersey Democratic Senator Cory Booker delivered an unforgettable marathon speech in the Senate, lasting more than 21 hours, in a remarkable show of endurance. Speaking on Monday evening, Booker said he would remain on the Senate floor “as long as I am physically able,” making it one of the longest speeches in Senate history.His primary objective was to highlight the Democrats’ resistance to President Donald Trump’s sweeping actions and policies. “These are not normal times in our nation,” Booker declared. “And they should not be treated as such in the United States Senate. The threats to the American people and American democracy are grave and urgent, and we all must do more to stand against them.”Booker criticises Trump’s cuts to Social SecurityThroughout his speech, Booker focused on the negative impacts of cuts to Social Security offices under the guidance of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. He also expressed his concern about potential broader cuts to the social safety net, despite Republican assurances that the program won’t be affected.Booker’s speech also included personal stories and letters from constituents.Support from Democratic colleaguesThroughout the day, Booker was supported by his fellow Democratic colleagues, who took turns asking him questions and offering praise for his stamina. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer commended Booker’s performance, saying, “Your strength, your fortitude, your clarity has just been nothing short of amazing, and all of America is paying attention to what you’re saying.”As Booker continued, House members from the Congressional Black Caucus, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, came to offer their support, standing on the edge of the Senate floor to watch him.Booker draws on history and civil rights leadersA significant portion of Booker’s speech drew inspiration from the civil rights movement. He invoked the late Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), emphasising that achieving civil rights required more than just words—it required action. “We got civil rights because people marched for it, sweat for it, and John Lewis bled for it,” Booker said.As his speech grew longer, Booker made repeated references to the historic filibuster of Strom Thurmond, who spoke for 24 hours in 1957 against the Civil Rights Act. Booker reminded listeners that such efforts required persistence and action beyond just speeches.Booker breaks Ted Cruz’s recordBooker’s speech surpassed the 21-hour and 19-minute speech by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in 2013, making it the fourth longest speech in Senate history. Booker’s speech was a broad critique of Trump’s agenda and the political environment under his administration.As Booker surpassed Cruz’s record, Cruz humorously responded with a meme of Homer Simpson crying on social media.A rising Democratic starCory Booker’s extended speech is expected to solidify his position as a prominent leader in the Democratic Party’s opposition to President Trump. Although he was an unsuccessful candidate for president in 2020, his performance during this extended speech has put him back in the national spotlight.Having served as the mayor of Newark, New Jersey, before his time in the Senate, Booker is considered a rising star in the Democratic Party. His Senate career began in 2013, and he was reelected in 2020. His marathon speech marks another step in his journey to becoming a central figure in American politics.Also Read | Donald Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs: A look at Indian sectors to bear bruntBooker’s call for action and kindnessDespite his exhaustion, Booker remained steadfast in his message. As his colleagues came to support him, Booker called on Americans to respond to the challenges of the current political landscape with resistance and kindness. “I may be afraid — my voice may shake — but I’m going to speak up more,” Booker said.Also Read | DOGE’s shocking discovery about Social Security numbers issued to noncitizensCatch all the Business News , Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.Business NewsNewsUs NewsCory Booker’s 21-hour speech against Donald Trump’s policies STILL going strong: Will he keep going?MoreLess
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