A Swamp‑Style Showdown Against Trump

The event, called the “State of the Swamp, ” drew a lively crowd that wore green outfits and frog‑themed costumes, echoing the swamp motif. Some speakers even sported frog hats to match. Political leaders joined the protest, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and several U. S. Representatives such as Seth Moulton (MA), Dan Goldman (NY), and Jason Crow (CO). Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon also spoke, while 2024 presidential hopeful Marianne Williamson and activist Stacey Abrams appeared virtually. Stacey Abrams highlighted the importance of voter turnout, saying that when many people participate, it weakens authoritarian influence. Her message underscored the event’s focus on preserving democracy.Hollywood stars added to the rally. Mark Ruffalo appeared via video to criticize Immigration and Customs Enforcement, while former CNN anchor Jim Acosta shouted “f ICE” during his panel. British journalist Mehdi Hasan and former ABC News reporter Terry Moran also spoke. The gathering’s organizers, Defiance, emphasized opposition to ICE and called for the release of documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Representative Dan Goldman urged the audience to demand those files, earning cheers. A separate photo booth offered a mock “Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein Memorial Reading Room, ” where visitors could pose with faux documents, the backdrop reflecting sealed files while only displaying the room’s title. Many Democratic lawmakers chose to skip Trump’s State of the Union address, opting instead for a “People’s State of the Union” event on the National Mall. This parallel program aimed to counter Trump’s speech with a focus on civic engagement and transparency.