As President Donald Trump prepares to address a joint session of Congress, reports indicate that some Democratic lawmakers are organizing various forms of protest to express their opposition to his policies and recent administrative actions.?

• Coordinated Walkouts: Certain members have discussed the possibility of exiting the chamber in response to specific statements made by President Trump during his speech. ?

• Use of Props: Discussions have included the use of items such as noisemakers, signs with anti-Trump or anti-Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) messages, hand clappers, and red cards to visibly display dissent.

• Thematic Attire: The Democratic Women’s Caucus has encouraged its members to wear pink, while female members of the Congressional Black Caucus may don black attire. Additionally, supporters of Ukraine are considering wearing blue and yellow to signify solidarity.

• Inviting Affected Individuals: Some Democrats plan to bring former federal employees as guests to highlight the impact of recent mass firings within federal agencies.

Leadership’s Stance

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has emphasized the importance of presenting a unified front, stating that attending the speech will demonstrate that there is a strong opposition party ready to serve as a check on the president. ?

This is not the first instance of such protests during presidential addresses. In 2020, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi notably tore up President Trump’s State of the Union speech.

White House Response

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the reports of potential disruptions, suggesting that Democrats should consider acknowledging the positive aspects of President Trump’s agenda.

As the address approaches, it remains to be seen how these planned protests will unfold and what impact they may have on the proceedings