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Washington, D.C. – In a marathon display of political endurance, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) took to the Senate floor for 25 hours and 5 minutes, setting a new record for the longest continuous speech in the chamber’s history.
The extended address, which began at 7 p.m. on March 31 and concluded at 8:05 p.m. on April 1, served as a pointed protest against the policies of President Donald Trump.
While many initially speculated that Booker’s speech was a filibuster, it did not meet the technical definition. A filibuster is typically used to obstruct or delay legislative action on a specific bill. Instead, Booker’s speech was a symbolic stand against a broad array of policies he argued were harmful to vulnerable Americans, particularly proposed cuts to Social Security and other social safety net programs.
“I rise tonight because I believe, sincerely, that our country is in crisis,” Booker declared. “For all Americans, it’s a moral moment. It’s not left or right. It’s right or wrong.”
Breaking a Longstanding RecordBooker’s speech shattered the previous record of 24 hours and 18 minutes, set by Senator Strom Thurmond (D-SC) in 1957. Thurmond, who later became a Republican, used his floor time to filibuster the Civil Rights Act—an effort widely condemned in hindsight. Booker’s feat, in contrast, was hailed by many progressives as a moment of moral clarity and a direct challenge to Trump’s agenda.
“Senator Booker stood not just for hours but for the people who feel unseen and unheard in Washington,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “It was an incredibly powerful moment.”
Booker was aided by fellow Senate Democrats, who posed procedural questions throughout his speech, providing brief respites while allowing him to maintain control of the floor. This collaborative effort ensured he could continue speaking without violating Senate rules on continuous debate.
A History of Marathon SpeechesLong speeches have been a tool for both parties. In 2016, Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) spoke for nearly 15 hours advocating for gun control. In 2010, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) delivered an 8.5-hour speech against tax cuts for the wealthy. Other notable extended speeches include Senator Alfonse D’Amato’s (R-NY) 15-hour address in 1986 over a military contract dispute.
What makes Booker’s speech stand out, however, is its sheer length and its focus on the broader moral implications of governance. Rather than targeting a single piece of legislation, Booker painted a picture of a nation at a crossroads.
Impact and Progressive ReceptionThe value of Booker’s extended speech has been a topic of debate. While some critics argue that marathon speeches amount to little more than political theater, others see them as symbolic gestures that galvanize public attention.
Booker’s speech was streamed live online, drawing tens of thousands of viewers. His message quickly spread across social media, with hashtags like #BookerMarathon and #StandWithCory trending nationwide.
“I was challenged by my own constituents to do something different,” Booker said. “Challenged by my own constituents to take risks.”
Progressive leaders lauded the speech as a necessary act of resistance.
“This is what leadership looks like,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). “When history looks back at this moment, it will remember who stood up and who remained silent.”
However, not everyone was impressed. Republican leaders dismissed the effort as political grandstanding.
“This was nothing but a stunt,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). “Democrats have no real solutions, just speeches.”
What Comes Next?Despite the record-setting address, Booker’s speech did not prevent any immediate legislative actions. However, it succeeded in bringing national attention to issues many Democrats believe will be central to upcoming elections.
As the 2026 midterms approach, Booker’s impassioned plea may serve as a rallying cry for Democratic voters. With concerns over entitlement cuts, healthcare access, and civil rights at the forefront of national discourse, his marathon stand could have lasting political ramifications.
Whether it was a historic act of defiance or simply a prolonged monologue, one thing is clear: Senator Cory Booker’s 25-hour speech will be remembered as a defining moment in the ongoing debate over America’s future.