Resolution 250294

..Title Honoring United States Senator Cory Booker for his courageous and historic 25-hour Senate floor speech, standing in defense of America's core democratic principles and Constitutional values. ..Body WHEREAS, On March 31, 2025, at 7:00 PM, Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey commenced a continuous speech on the floor of the United States Senate, which lasted for 25 hours and 5 minutes, setting a new record for the longest individual speech in Senate history; and WHEREAS, The previous record for the longest individual Senate speech was held by a Senator who spoke in opposition of the Civil Rights Act for 24 hours and 18 minutes in 1957; and WHEREAS, Upon taking the floor, Senator Booker declared his intention to disrupt "the normal business of the United State Senate for as long as [he was] physically able", signaling his commitment to defending and democratic and Constitutional values at a time of unprecedented crisis; and WHEREAS, During his speech, Senator Booker emphasized the threats to the nation's core principles, asserting that U.S. commitment to justice, equality, and democracy is under attack; and WHEREAS, Throughout his marathon speech, in order to maintain control of the Senate floor, Senator Booker remained standing for the entire of the 25-hour period, not even stopping to eat. He was joined by other democratic senators who asked questions and provided support, allowing him brief moments of rest; and WHEREAS, Senator Booker's speech was thoroughly prepared, drawing from 1,164 pages of material, including reading letters from numerous constituents under impacted by the Administration's actions; and WHEREAS, Senator Booker's marathon speech served as a meaningful act of resistance, aiming to inspire both his colleagues and the American public to remain proactive in safeguarding the nation's democratic principles and processes; and WHEREAS, This act of endurance and dedication drew national attention, inspiring people across the country and reinforcing the importance of active participation in democratic processes; and WHEREAS, Senator Booker's demonstration serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant in defending the democratic values that form the foundation of our nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors United States Senator Cory Booker for his courageous and historic 25-hour Senate floor speech, standing in defense of America's core democratic principles and Constitutional values. ..End