Here’s the short but monumental speech delivered by Senator Cory Booker on the Senate floor Monday evening. He filibustered for an unprecedented 25 hours and five minutes! The speech was mainly intended to lead with opposition to the Trump administration, but the focus quickly shifted to ensuring the new Congress members are held accountable. Booker fasted and dehydrated himself in the days leading up to the event. He attempted to smash the timeless record for longest filibuster, set by Strom Thurmond in 1957.
Booker began his speech on Monday evening, pushing through intense physical strain as he navigated a range of topics, including the historical context of civil rights and the importance of standing against current policies. In particular, he condemned his fellow lawmakers for their shortcomings in not voting to block the president’s cabinet nominees and their other controversial policies.
During his all-night speech, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer had to interrupt Booker to verify that he’d broken Thurmond’s record. In response, Booker continued to speak passionately about the challenges facing America today, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
“Well, I don’t know how to solve this,” said Booker from the stage. What was perhaps most striking about Andrew’s current state of mind was his palpable anger at how we got here and where we’re going. He urged his colleagues to hold the Trump administration accountable, invoking the spirits of the Founding Fathers and civil rights leaders who fought against injustice.
Booker’s indefatigable physical and emotional commitment to the speech took a personal toll. In an interview with CNN, he said he hadn’t eaten in days. To prevent any restroom breaks interrupting the acutely long speech, he dehydrated himself intentionally. This commitment reaffirmed his willingness to give the best, most potent message possible without distraction.
Instead of just telling this story, Booker amplified the need for action through the testimony he recorded. I call the shots, he said, reminding us who really holds the power “You want to know who is in charge – the American people. Their power is greater than those in power—and that is a testament to the fact change can happen when the people get engaged.
His comments resonated with many lawmakers present, including Senator Chris Murphy, who remarked, “What you have done here today Senator Booker couldn’t be more different than what occurred on this floor in 1957.” Murphy made sure to emphasize that, “Today, you’re not standing in the way of progress. Today, you are standing in the way of retreat. This announcement bolsters Booker’s case for a more progressive agenda.
Let Cory Booker’s speech be the beginning of another, more positive trend in contemporary politics. It’s remarkable not only for its record-setting length, but for its punchy and effective content. He took on accountability and justice. This brought attention to the important role Congress has in crafting policies that impact all Americans.
As he concluded his address, Booker urged his fellow legislators to reflect on their roles in governance and their responsibilities toward constituents.