Michelle ThompsonCongressional Democrats face a significant challenge in responding to President Donald Trump’s governing style, compounded by growing concerns that their base feels they aren’t doing enough to oppose his actions.
As Trump commemorates his first 100 days in office on Tuesday, Democrats are planning a series of speeches, sit-ins, and events to show their supporters that they are actively resisting the administration’s controversial policies.
Senate Democrats intend to keep the floor open late, delivering speeches that criticize what Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called “100 days of hell.” They will also join House Democrats on Wednesday to protest Trump’s agenda on the Senate steps.
Schumer stated, “Day after day, we will emphasize the difference between Democratic unity and Republican disarray. As long as Donald Trump continues down this dangerous path, he’ll face resistance from Democrats, the courts, and most importantly, the American people.”
Democrats have faced mounting pressure from voters who feel their party isn’t adequately opposing the president. A recent CNN poll revealed a significant disapproval of the party’s leadership, with 61% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning individuals expressing dissatisfaction with Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Schumer, however, downplayed the poll results, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against Trump. “We are doing the right thing,” he said. “We are focusing on how bad Trump is.”
With Republicans in control of the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives, Democrats have struggled to find effective ways to block the administration’s actions.
Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin acknowledged the frustration within the party but noted that their limited minority status means their options are constrained. “Our progressive supporters understand our limitations but know we are doing our best,” he said. “The good news is that the American people are seeing the negative impact of Trump’s presidency.”
Durbin also announced he would not seek reelection, stepping down from his No. 2 position in Senate Democratic leadership. His departure opens the door for new leadership, with Senators Brian Schatz, Cory Booker, and Elizabeth Warren being discussed as potential successors.
Warren, addressing some voter dissatisfaction, called for more action from Democratic lawmakers. “We need every single Democratic senator and representative 100% in the fight every single day,” she said. “Trump and Musk are flooding the zone, and Democrats need to push back harder.”
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar also pointed to Trump’s chaotic leadership as a major issue. Booker, on the other hand, has been actively engaging in resistance, delivering a long speech on the Senate floor and participating in a sit-in with Jeffries to protest potential cuts to Social Security and other programs.
Despite growing frustration among the Democratic base, there is disagreement within the party about the best approach to fighting back. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez suggested that being loud and angry might not be the most effective long-term strategy, though her comments were met with criticism.
For Jeffries, the solution is clear: “More is more” when it comes to resistance, including rallies, sit-ins, and town hall meetings across the country.
Republicans, however, have criticized the Democrats’ efforts, with Senator John Cornyn arguing that their actions are not convincing anyone and are simply aimed at appeasing an angry base.
Emily Martinez
