Cory Booker’s live “filibuster” is taking America by storm. At the time of writing, he’s entering his 19th hour on the Senate floor, giving a speech against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s agenda. Millions of people around the world have caught at least some part of his marathon speech, and while the content is a lot more serious than a reality show, the Senator’s performance as a protagonist fighting against a vicious opposing force is often reminiscent of some of our favorite reality TV moments.
Why is Senator Cory Booker filibustering against Donald Trump and Elon Musk?
“These are not normal times in our nation,” Senator Booker said as he opened his speech. “And they should not be treated as such in the United States Senate. The threats to the American people and American democracy are grave and urgent, and we all must do more to stand against them.”
In short: Senator Booker sees President Trump and Elon as dangers to democracy in the United States of America. And that their “bedrock commitments” to the country “are being broken.”
While some of Senator Booker’s opponents would describe his speech as posturing, they’ll remind reality TV viewers of confessional moments. These are when stars get the chance to monologue about their experience, with prompts by producers. Senator Booker isn’t being produced, but he has been allowed to take visual prompts onto the Senate floor with him. These have included letters from civilians he represents, which at times have made him emotional.
With moments like this littered throughout various reality shows from Real Housewives stars and the like, it’s difficult not to draw parallels. And many people are listening, albeit, not the one in charge.
We already know the President’s not interested in changing course. He’s also no stranger to reality TV. A White House spokesperson threw classic reality show shade, referencing Senator Booker’s “failed presidential campaign.”
Like any great reality show, Senator Booker’s speech will have a season finale. But will it have lasting effects? Or simply wrap up this chapter of his political story? That’s for the rest of America to decide.
Again, I must repeat: the seriousness of this situation and reality TV are worlds apart. But if there’s one reality show you watch this year, make it as much of Senator Booker’s “filibuster” as possible.
Is Cory Booker still speaking in the Senate?
At the time of writing, Cory Booker is still speaking in the Senate during his “filibuster.” While technically not a “filibuster,” Senator Booker has entered his 19th hour of his marathon speech, as of 2 p.m. ET. The Senator has promised to remain on the Senate floor for as long as he is “physically able.” He is not allowed to eat during his time speaking, and seemingly only has two small glasses of water available to keep him going.
