Mike Johnson, the House Speaker, criticized Democrats who boycotted President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. He made the remarks in an exclusive interview with CBS Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil. Johnson stated that dozens of lawmakers skipped the event on February 25, 2026.
Johnson’s Strong Rebuke
Johnson called the boycott “detestable.” He said, “I think it’s detestable that members would boycott the speech.” Additionally, he emphasized tradition.
Johnson explained, “We’ve never done that. It doesn’t matter if there’s a Democrat president, you go and respect the office, you respect the decorum, the institution, the tradition of having had this speech made.” He described the decision as “sad.”
Johnson added, “We play for one team. We’re all for America.” Meanwhile he urged Republicans to maintain decorum. Johnson referenced past outbursts, such as when Marjorie Taylor Greene, a former GOP representative, shouted “liar” at former President Joe Biden in 2024.
Democrats’ Reasons and Actions
Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader, outlined options for his caucus. He said members could attend with silent defiance or skip the address entirely. However many chose boycott. Ed Markey, a senator from Massachusetts, joined the “People’s State of the Union” on the National Mall.
Markey stated, “If Trump will not honor the American people, then the people should turn off his remarks and turn toward each other – toward their neighbors, their communities, and the real power of this country.”
Other participants included senators Jeff Merkley of Oregon, Chris Murphy of Connecticut, Tina Smith of Minnesota, and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland. Representatives Pramila Jayapal of Washington, Becca Balint of Vermont, and Greg Casar of Texas also attended.
Counterprogramming and Responses
Ron Wyden, a senator from Oregon, attended the “State of the Swamp” at the National Press Club. He joined representatives Seth Moulton of Massachusetts, Dan Goldman of New York, and Eugene Vindman of Virginia.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a representative from New York, skipped without specified plans In addition, Richard Blumenthal, a senator from Connecticut, attended. Blumenthal said, “I think it’s important to confront him face to face. I refuse to let him bully me out of the room.” Jeffries responded to Johnson.
He stated, “Mike Johnson and House Republicans are not in a position to lecture anyone about decorum. Not with this president, who’s completely and totally out of control in every way possible.” The Olympic men’s hockey team attended after Trump invited them.
