Fetterman Slams Democratic ‘Contempt’ at Trump’s 2026 SOTU
While dozens of colleagues boycotted or jeered, Senator John Fetterman chose a different path, standing for victims, veterans, and basic presidential respect.
During President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address on Tuesday night, Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) distanced himself from the "theatrical contempt" displayed by much of the Democratic caucus. While over 70 Democrats boycotted the event and many in attendance responded with stone-faced silence or open heckling, Fetterman chose to stand and applaud for several key moments.
Fetterman was vocal in his criticism of the lack of decorum during the nearly two-hour speech. He emphasized a desire for basic dignity toward the office of the presidency, regardless of party affiliation.
He condemned the "yelling and screaming" from his colleagues, stating, "I don’t care if it’s a Republican or Democrat, it’s a president. Just don’t do that".
Fetterman noted that he did not coordinate his responses with party leadership, saying, "I never checked to see what... the rest of people in my party would stand up and clap for".
Fetterman believes he was the only Democrat in the chamber to shake the President’s hand as he entered.
The Pennsylvania Senator broke ranks to stand for several specific guests and tributes recognized during the address:
He stood for the family of the 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was killed by a career criminal in North Carolina.
He applauded for the political prisoner recently freed from Venezuela.
He joined the applause for veterans recognized by Trump in the audience.
He stood as the President honored the widow of Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot in Utah last year.
The "Trap" and a Rare Bipartisan Surprise
The partisan divide became most stark when President Trump challenged the chamber to reaffirm a fundamental principle: "The first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens". While Republicans erupted in a two-minute standing ovation, the Democratic side remained seated, prompting Trump to tell them, "You should be ashamed of yourself".
However, the evening did provide a rare moment of near-total unity. Trump called for a ban on congressional insider trading, arguing that lawmakers should not profit from non-public information. To Trump’s own surprise, both sides of the aisle stood to support the measure. "They stood up for that? I can't believe it," the President remarked while scanning the room.
"One of the great things about the State of the Union is how it gives Americans the chance to see clearly what their representatives really believe."