Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) has embarked on an unprecedented marathon speech on the Senate floor, lasting nearly 20 hours, to address what he deems a looming threat of tyranny in America. As the government shutdown enters its fourth week, Merkley’s extended remarks highlight serious concerns over constitutional integrity and the erosion of democratic principles. His speech is part of a broader effort by Democrats to confront what they describe as authoritarian tactics employed by the Trump administration.
Beginning his speech after 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Merkley made a powerful statement by reading extensively from the influential book, How Democracies Die by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt. Through his oratory, he accused President Trump of attempting to “trample” the Constitution and replace the longstanding tradition of representative government with a system dominated by the powerful elite.
During his marathon address, Merkley covered a wide range of critical issues, including:
Alleged attacks on the press Politicization of the Justice Department Military deployments in U.S. cities Health care cuts led by the GOPMerkley’s lengthy address follows a notable precedent set by Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), who previously held the record for the longest Senate speech at over 25 hours. Booker’s speech, which took place earlier this year from March to April, was also aimed at drawing attention to significant political issues.
In response to Merkley’s actions, Republican senators have condemned the extended speech, highlighting the plight of unpaid Capitol staff who are being forced to work overnight amid the ongoing shutdown. The situation underscores the escalating partisan tensions currently gripping the Senate floor, with no clear resolution in sight for the government shutdown.
As Senator Merkley continues his passionate plea for democratic integrity and governmental accountability, his marathon speech serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing American democracy today. With partisan divisions deepening, the future of the government and its institutions hangs in the balance.
In summary, Senator Merkley’s nearly 20-hour speech is not just a personal record but a significant moment in the fight against what many perceive as rising authoritarianism in the United States. His call to action resonates as citizens and lawmakers alike grapple with the implications of ongoing political strife.
