“They are bullying people who dare to stand up,” says Cory Booker in a historic 24-hour Senate speech

In an uninterrupted 24-hour, 19-minute protest against Donald Trump’s policies, Senator Cory Booker achieved history Tuesday night by giving the longest speech ever recorded in Senate history.

He started his speech at 7 p.m. Monday, surpassing the mark established by segregationist Senator Strom Thurmond, who opposed the Civil Rights Act for 24 hours and 18 minutes in 1957.

“This is not a time for politics. With a pocket-sized copy of the Constitution in his hand, Booker remarked, “It is a moral moment.” “Where are you now?” Part protest, part call to action, his speech centered on what he called the “reckless dismantling” of vital government programs by the Trump Administration.

Booker combined readings from civil rights leaders, personal testimony, and policy critiques while he stood at the lectern without taking breaks to use the restroom.

He declared, “I stand here tonight because I genuinely think that our country is in crisis.” He criticized Trump’s foreign policy, the growing power of billionaires like Elon Musk in governmental decision-making, and projected changes to Social Security and Medicaid.

He cautioned, “They are bullying people who dare to stand up.”

Booker’s lengthy speech became an unanticipated rallying cry for disgruntled Democrats and attracted hundreds of thousands of internet viewers. It was perceived by many as a direct challenge to party leaders who had recently reached a compromise with Republicans on a budget agreement approved by Trump.

“I’m completely awake. Booker began by promising, “I’m going to stand here for as many hours as I can.” He thought, “I’m here despite his speech,” as he shattered Thurmond’s record. Even though he was strong, the people were stronger, which is why I’m here.