On February 25, 2026, during his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump challenged lawmakers to “stand if you agree” with his assertion that “the first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens.” He used the moment to press for tougher immigration enforcement and criticized Democrats who largely declined to rise. The speech — record‑length and sharply partisan — prompted protests and walkouts on the floor, drew fierce Democratic denunciations, and drew defenses from White House aides who accused opponents of dishonoring victims and enabling lawlessness. The moment intensified partisan divisions nationwide politically. (transcripts.cnn.com)