Story perspectives

Illinois Lawmakers Boycott State of the Union in Protest

2/25/2026

Center

Illinois Lawmakers Protest

Illinois lawmakers boycott the State of the Union to protest President Donald Trump's policies.
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) says she cannot "pretend everything is normal" while constituents face hardships.
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) plans to attend the People's State of the Union.
Reps. Sean Casten and Mike Quigley (both D-Ill.) criticize Trump for disrespect toward the presidency.
Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) will host Rick Woldenberg, plaintiff in a tariffs lawsuit.

Left

Johnson Warns Trump

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) warned that losing the midterms could end U.S. President Donald Trump’s presidency.
He emphasized that maintaining a Republican majority in the House is essential to continue supporting Trump’s agenda.
He said a Democratic majority could hinder Trump’s policies and lead to investigations.
He said such a majority could also trigger impeachment efforts.
Johnson and other Republicans appear to prioritize enabling Trump over exercising governmental checks.

1 of 2

Illinois Lawmakers Protest

Illinois lawmakers boycott the State of the Union to protest President Donald Trump's policies.
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) says she cannot "pretend everything is normal" while constituents face hardships.
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) plans to attend the People's State of the Union.
Reps. Sean Casten and Mike Quigley (both D-Ill.) criticize Trump for disrespect toward the presidency.
Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) will host Rick Woldenberg, plaintiff in a tariffs lawsuit.

1 / 2