On April 27, 2025, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senator Cory Booker staged a 12-hour sit-in at the U.S. Capitol, livestreamed to engage the public in their protest against President Trump's budget proposals.

The sit-in was organized to reject a GOP budget reconciliation bill that aims to cut $1.5 trillion in federal spending, a move that has drawn strong opposition from Democrats.

Described as a 'moral moment,' the sit-in aimed to highlight the potential negative impacts of Trump's budget cuts on essential social services, including Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare.

Booker emphasized the moral implications of the budget, calling it a critical moment for America and stressing the need to protect safety net programs.

As Congress reconvenes, there is a push to finalize budget legislation by Memorial Day, with ongoing negotiations intensified by Trump's recent statements on the budget's significance.

Despite assurances from House Speaker Mike Johnson that Medicaid and Social Security would be preserved, Democrats argue that the proposed cuts would inevitably harm these programs.

Democrats have faced challenges in effectively conveying their opposition to the proposed cuts, with constituents expressing frustration over perceived inaction from their representatives.

Booker stated that the sit-in was crucial to prevent severe cuts to Medicaid and to challenge Trump's agenda, which he claimed would harm vulnerable populations.

The protest also saw participation from prominent figures, including Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II and NEA President Becky Pringle, who condemned the Trump administration's impact on public education.

Maya Wiley shared personal stories during the protest, illustrating the real-life impact of potential budget cuts on individuals reliant on Medicaid.

Both Jeffries and Booker urged citizens to voice their opposition to the proposed cuts, highlighting the impact on food security and healthcare for struggling families.

The livestream featured discussions on shared American values and the moral implications of the proposed budget, emphasizing the importance of public input.