Illinois Democrats, Republicans respond to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union

Contentious exchanges between President Donald Trump and Democratic lawmakers erupted during the longest-ever State of the Union address, in which Trump touted economic success, defended immigration policies and pushed to preserve tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court.

Illinois Rep. Lauren Underwood walked out of the House Chamber mid-speech, saying in a video posted afterward, “…I had to leave the State of the Union. After hearing him make light of the health care crisis that he created and then to not be even serious about prescription drugs, acting like Trump Rx is some real solution, give me a break. It’s outrageous and I couldn’t stay in there a moment longer.”

Several Illinois Democrats blasted the president’s remarks, while republicans lauded his accomplishments.

Here’s how a number of Illinois lawmakers responded.

Republican Rep. Darin LaHood

“Tonight, President Trump delivered a State of the Union address that highlighted the victories we’ve secured for the American people and laid a vision of strength for the future of our great nation. With Republican leadership in the White House and Congress, we have secured our southern border, cut taxes for working families, strengthened our economy, and restored American leadership on the world stage. While there is more work to be done, President Trump outlined a clear path to build on our success, strengthen our national security, make life more affordable, and expand opportunity for American families.”

Democratic Rep. Brad Schneider

“If you were fortunate to be watching the State of the Union at home tonight, you could have changed the channel after the USA Men’s Hockey Team was honored for bringing home gold. That was the best part of the longest-ever State of the Union Address. Congratulations to them – and to the USA Women’s Hockey Team and to all of our winter Olympians.

“Nearly two hours later, the President presented the Congressional Medal of Honor to two war heroes. It was a moment that rightly united the entire chamber inspired by these two heroes’ sacrifice for our nation.

“Unfortunately, the rest of the President’s address was just more of Mr. Trump’s tired old grievances and lies. It’s obvious he has no serious plan to help hardworking Americans get ahead, no plan to lower the cost of groceries, to make it easier to buy a home or afford healthcare for their families.

“Because of President Trump’s failed agenda, Americans are paying too much at the grocery store. Housing and utility costs are preventing families from reaching the American dream. Healthcare costs are so high, millions of Americans are being priced out of basic care altogether.

“Instead of offering real solutions, the President bragged about kicking millions of people off food stamps, including children and seniors. He defended and doubled down on his illegal tariff taxes that raised costs for consumers and pushed small businesses to the brink of disaster. He brushed aside his administration’s vicious, violent, and cruel immigration policies that have resulted in the killing of American citizens.

“I want to make life better for all Americans, to lower costs, to keep our communities safe and healthy, to preserve democracy, and to protect our national security. I wish that was the case as well for our President. Unfortunately, all the American people continue to get are broken promises, higher costs, and endless chaos.

“Our nation deserves better. While Republicans continue to bury their heads in the sand and bend their knees in supplication to their failed, corrupt President, Democrats are fighting back, using every tool available to stop Trump and Republicans’ extreme policies and make life better for the American people.”

After spending the last year wreaking havoc on our communities, Donald Trump yet again spewed lies and attempted to gaslight the American people.

We endured baseless claims, shameless propaganda, and the ramblings of a wannabe dictator outlining his plans to steal our elections.

— Governor JB Pritzker (@govpritzker.illinois.gov) February 24, 2026 at 10:15 PM