At least 12 Democratic lawmakers plan to boycott Trump’s State of the Union address

At least a dozen Democratic lawmakers plan to boycott Donald Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address, opting instead to attend a “People’s State of the Union” rally on the National Mall organized by progressive groups MoveOn and MeidasTouch.

The event is billed as counterprogramming to Trump’s speech, highlighting everyday Americans affected by his policies.

Lawmakers skipping the address include Sens. Ed Markey, Jeff Merkley, Chris Murphy, and Reps. Pramila Jayapal and Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Democrats cited concerns that the speech has become a campaign-style event spreading misinformation and division, rather than a serious reflection on the nation’s progress, NBC News has reported.

Historically, opposition lawmakers have expressed dissent through walkouts, responses, or symbolic protests, including Pelosi famously tearing up Trump’s 2020 address.