Dems take ‘moral moment’ on Capitol steps as Congress is back in session

Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., made a powerful statement on Sunday by staging a sit-in on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, denouncing President Donald Trump’s agenda as Congress reconvenes to negotiate the “big, beautiful bill.” The Democratic leaders chose to forego traditional church services in favor of what they called a “sacred civic space” outside the Capitol, where they spent over 12 hours engaging with activists and fellow politicians.

During the sit-in, Booker and Jeffries spoke passionately about their faith and moral convictions, urging Americans to share their experiences of Trump’s first 100 days in office. They emphasized the importance of pushing back against Trump’s proposed budget cuts, which they believe will jeopardize essential programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. Despite the Trump administration’s assurances that these services will remain intact, Democrats remain concerned about the anticipated $1.5 trillion in spending reductions and extensions of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts.

As Congress reconvenes this week, committees will begin marking up the budget framework passed before the recess, with the goal of finalizing legislation by Memorial Day. Trump has added pressure to the negotiations by touting his vision for the budget bill on social media, promising massive tax cuts, border security measures, military advancements, deregulation, and spending reforms. However, Democrats have raised alarm about the potential consequences of Trump’s proposed bill, highlighting cuts to education, Planned Parenthood funding, and SNAP benefits.

Booker and Jeffries underscored the urgency of the moment, calling the proposed budget bill a moral threat to the country. They emphasized the impact it would have on vulnerable populations and criticized the prioritization of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. Booker, who has been criticized for his vocal opposition to Trump’s policies in the past, remains steadfast in his commitment to advocating for those who will be most affected by the proposed budget cuts.

As Democrats continue to push back against Trump’s agenda, they face challenges in articulating a clear vision for the future and unifying the party under a consistent message. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., highlighted the need for Democrats to present a compelling vision for the future as the party navigates its post-election landscape.

The sit-in on the Capitol steps served as a powerful symbol of resistance and solidarity among Democrats, drawing attention to the potential consequences of Trump’s budget bill. As negotiations continue in Congress, the debate over the budget bill will likely intensify, with Democrats and Republicans at odds over the best path forward for the country.