Democrats’ refusal to stand became a defining moment of President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union when he asked lawmakers to rise if they believe “the first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens.” Almost all Republicans stood, while virtually no Democrats did, sparking fresh controversy over party priorities and rhetoric on immigration policy.
During post-speech commentary, Rep. Janelle Bynum (D-OR) addressed Trump’s immigration prompt. She said, “I think you can agree with that ‘what,’ like standing up for American citizens, but I disagree with the ‘how.’” Bynum added, “There’s thinly veiled racist language, anti-immigrant language in what he was asking and that was uncomfortable.”
Trump crafted the moment to dramatize political divisions, pressing lawmakers to visibly affirm that prioritizing citizens over illegal immigrants is fundamental. The speech also mixed patriotic celebrations — including honoring military veterans and Olympic champions — with pointed political theater tied to immigration and border security.
Critics argued the segment was designed to put Democrats on the defensive, noting that the stand-or-sit moment highlighted stark party contrasts. Many Republicans and conservative commentators quickly circulated footage showing Democrats seated during Trump’s challenge, framing it as indicative of broader opposition to prioritizing citizen protection.
Democratic lawmakers, however, described the president’s delivery as divisive. Bynum’s comments reflected broader Democratic concern that the framing of immigration policy can unfairly stigmatize immigrant communities or employ language they consider insensitive.
The exchange now joins a series of viral moments from the address that underscore how immigration remains a central fault line in U.S. politics heading into the 2026 midterm cycle.
