Story perspectives

Democrats Demand Epstein Accountability During State of Union

2/25/2026

Summary

Survivors Demand Justice

During the State of the Union address, Democratic lawmakers invited survivors of Jeffrey Epstein to press for accountability.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged the release of Epstein files and criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.
Survivors Dani Bensky and Marina Lacerda attended as guests, representing a push for justice.
Meanwhile, some Democrats boycotted the address to attend counterprogramming protesting Trump’s handling of the situation.

Summary

Trump Awards Honors

On February 24, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Connor Hellebuyck, the U.S. hockey goalie, for Olympic gold.
He presented Purple Hearts to Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who survived a shooting, and Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, killed in the same attack.
Navy Captain E. Royce Williams received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Korean War.

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Survivors Demand Justice

During the State of the Union address, Democratic lawmakers invited survivors of Jeffrey Epstein to press for accountability.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged the release of Epstein files and criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.
Survivors Dani Bensky and Marina Lacerda attended as guests, representing a push for justice.
Meanwhile, some Democrats boycotted the address to attend counterprogramming protesting Trump’s handling of the situation.

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