In a passionate and prolonged speech on the Senate floor, Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) launched a scathing critique of former President Donald Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. Beginning at 7 p.m. on Monday, Booker continued speaking for over 13 hours, highlighting concerns over policy decisions, corporate influence, and threats to democratic values.
Booker’s speech, which extended well into Tuesday morning, was aimed at exposing what he described as the “harm” inflicted by the Trump administration. “In just 71 days, Donald Trump has jeopardized our national security, eroded financial stability, and undermined the very foundations of our democracy,” Booker declared. He accused Trump of targeting social programs such as Medicare and Medicaid while advancing tax policies that primarily benefit billionaires and corporations.
Concerns Over Social Programs
One of Booker’s central arguments revolved around the fate of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. He read letters from constituents who expressed fears that their benefits might be slashed under Republican-led efforts to reform entitlement programs. “Millions of Americans depend on these programs,” Booker emphasized. “Yet, the administration is seeking to dismantle them to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans.”
Despite these claims, Trump has publicly stated that he would not cut these benefits but aims to eliminate fraud and inefficiencies within the programs. The former president’s position on entitlement programs remains a subject of intense debate, with Democrats arguing that Republican-led initiatives could lead to significant reductions in funding over time.
Elon Musk Under Fire
In addition to targeting Trump, Booker turned his attention to Musk, accusing the tech mogul of wielding outsized influence over American politics and economic policy. He specifically criticized Musk’s handling of social media platform X (formerly Twitter), arguing that his leadership has fostered misinformation and eroded public discourse. “We must ask ourselves: Is this the kind of leadership we want in the digital age? A billionaire who controls the flow of information with little to no oversight?” Booker questioned.
Musk has defended his approach to free speech on X, stating that his goal is to ensure open dialogue and reduce censorship. His leadership has, however, drawn criticism from lawmakers across the political spectrum, particularly for reinstating previously banned accounts and making controversial policy changes.
Booker Gains Support from Fellow Democrats
Throughout the night, Booker received backing from several Democratic colleagues, who briefly took turns speaking in support of his arguments. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) praised Booker’s determination, stating, “This is exactly the kind of fight we need to protect working-class Americans from corporate greed and political corruption.”
Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers dismissed the speech as a publicity stunt. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) responded on social media, calling it “another pointless grandstanding effort that does nothing to address the real issues Americans are facing.”
A Larger Political Strategy?
Booker’s speech is being widely interpreted as a strategic move ahead of the 2026 Senate elections. Analysts suggest that by taking on both Trump and Musk—two figures who command strong conservative support—Booker is positioning himself as a key Democratic voice against right-wing influence in politics and business.
Political strategist Lisa Murphy noted, “Booker is making a calculated move here. He’s not just addressing policy issues; he’s setting himself up as a leader in the resistance against Trump’s influence in government and Musk’s dominance in the private sector.”
Looking Ahead
As Booker’s speech drew to a close, he reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the fight for social justice and economic fairness. “This is just the beginning. We will not stand idly by while our democracy is chipped away by the powerful and the privileged,” he vowed.
With Trump continuing to shape Republican policies and Musk maintaining his stronghold in the tech industry, Booker’s marathon speech signals an ongoing ideological battle that is likely to intensify as the 2026 elections approach. Whether his passionate stand translates into tangible legislative victories remains to be seen, but for now, Booker has made it clear: he’s not backing down.
