1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

I demand that you not to attend President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address on February 24, 2026. At least a dozen Democratic senators and representatives are choosing to skip the official speech and instead participate in alternative events to highlight serious concerns with the direction of national policy and political division. Many of these lawmakers describe the official address as an opportunity being used for division rather than unity and as a platform that does not reflect the experiences of everyday Americans. Your absence would send a clear message that our highest elected officials must prioritize accountability and focus on tangible solutions rather than participating in a spectacle that many view as a campaign style rally rather than a policy focused discussion. Senators who are already publicly committed to skipping the address have said their choice reflects opposition to what they describe as policies that erode democratic norms and harm constituents, and a desire to use that time for direct engagement with the communities you serve. Choosing not to attend would underscore your accountability to your constituents, who want leadership grounded in action and focused on pressing issues such as economic security, immigration reform, and the impacts of government shutdowns on essential services. It would highlight your commitment to making elected officials answer directly to the people they represent rather than reinforcing traditions that have become partisan.