In a remarkable demonstration of endurance, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker has taken control of the Senate floor with a record-setting speech lasting over 24 hours, marking the longest continuous Senate floor address in history. His prolonged address aims to signify Democratic opposition to President Donald Trump’s expansive measures. As this unfolds, Trump is preparing to introduce tariffs on imports from other countries by April 2, asserting they will reduce American reliance on foreign products. He plans to impose “reciprocal” tariffs to match the duties other countries levy on U.S. products.
Coinciding with these developments, employees at the U.S. Health and Human Services Department received dismissal notices, possibly affecting up to 10,000 positions as part of an extensive departmental overhaul. Meanwhile, arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico have hit their lowest monthly average since the 1960s, with March figures showing a significant decrease from previous months. This decline follows stricter enforcement by Mexican authorities and the Biden administration’s tighter asylum controls.
Booker’s marathon speech showcases the Democrats’ determination to resist Trump’s policies. He surpassed the speech lengths of notable predecessors, including Ted Cruz’s 2013 effort against the Affordable Care Act, though still behind Strom Thurmond’s 1957 record against the Civil Rights Act.
Television host Bill Maher has teased the revelation of details about his recent dinner with Trump, further adding to the intrigue. In Congress, Democratic leaders have united against Trump’s tax cuts, aiming to reassure their base of their commitment to countering the President’s policy moves. Former President Joe Biden has also engaged in advocacy, urging voters in Florida and Wisconsin to participate in upcoming elections.
A report by major Catholic and evangelical organizations indicates that a majority of immigrants at risk of deportation are Christian, highlighting the potential impact of Trump’s immigration policies. Meanwhile, a judiciary race in Wisconsin has attracted attention, with high-profile figures like billionaire Elon Musk intervening to rally support for Republican-backed candidates.
Negotiations concerning a sale of TikTok have resumed as the Trump administration considers potential investors, amidst concerns over the app’s Chinese ownership and national security implications. The administration also faces multiple legal challenges over its recent executive orders concerning election reforms and immigration policies, with advocacy groups mobilizing against these measures.
In the international sphere, conversations between Canada’s Prime Minister and Mexico’s President highlight efforts to navigate the economic impacts of impending U.S. tariffs. This strategy underscores the complex trade dynamics between the countries involved.
Lastly, Trump’s administration has paused substantial grants for family planning services as it investigates compliance with federal laws, a move echoing longstanding controversies over abortion-linked funding. As Sen. Cory Booker continues his historic speech, the political atmosphere remains charged, reflecting ongoing efforts by Democrats to question and challenge Trump’s agenda.