In an unprecedented display of endurance and resolve, Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey embarked on a marathon speech on the Senate floor, which commenced at 7 p.m. ET on Monday and lasted over 25 hours, officially concluding on Tuesday evening. The speech not only set the record for the longest continuous speech in Senate history but also marked a vocal protest against the Trump administration and its policies.

Booker, visibly emotional at times, was joined by fellow Democrats in what has been described as a stirring show of solidarity and urgency. The senator took the podium with the intention of speaking ‘for as long as I am physically able,’ and he delivered on that promise, breaking a record held since 1957 by the late Strom Thurmond, who famously spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes to stall the Civil Rights Act.

The New Jersey Democrat’s remarks centered on a multitude of issues, including immigration, education, and economic policies under the Trump administration, which he argues have dire implications for American citizens. ‘These are not normal times in our nation, and they should not be treated as such in the United States Senate,’ Booker stated during his opening remarks.

Throughout the speech, he received support from various colleagues, with multiple Democrats taking the floor to pose questions, allowing him brief moments to regroup without relinquishing the podium. This collaborative effort underscored the party’s determination to resist the Trump agenda and engage constituents across the nation who are calling for action.

By Tuesday evening, Booker’s live stream was garnering attention from over 115,000 viewers, highlighting the public’s interest in his commentary regarding social justice and the urgent calls for political accountability.

Senator Chris Murphy, a close ally of Booker, praised his perseverance during the lengthy address and highlighted the essential differences between Booker’s advocacy for civil rights and Thurmond’s objection to equal rights nearly seven decades prior. ‘Today, you are standing in the way of retreat from the rule of law,’ Murphy echoed, emphasizing the broader context of Booker’s actions.

The senator’s speech, while chiefly aimed at protesting Trump’s policies, serves a dual purpose—a historical nod to the struggle for civil rights as he directly echoed the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis, asserting that standing up against injustice requires not just words, but continued activism and assertiveness.

Despite the marathon nature of the speech, reminiscent of high-profile legislative battles in recent years, its significance transcends mere record-breaking—it is a vivid reminder of the ongoing challenges facing democracy and the pivotal role lawmakers play in advocating for change.

As discussions continue to unfold regarding the implications of Trump’s policies, Booker’s nearly day-long speech will likely influence the conversation within the Democratic party and inspire activists rallying for social and political reforms.