State of Disunion: Connecticut's Identity Crisis

If you were watching the news on February 24, 2026, you didn't just see a speech—you witnessed a deep-seated identity crisis for the Nutmeg State.

The defining image of the night wasn’t a policy proposal, but a stark visual divide in the House chamber. At one point, President Trump turned to the assembly and asked them to stand if they agreed that the “first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens.”

The result was a jarring split-screen (video here):

The GOP: Roared to their feet in a prolonged standing ovation.

The Democrats (including members of CT's delegation who were present): Remained firmly in their seats.

Trump leaned into the silence, telling the audience that those seated should be "ashamed of themselves." For those watching in Connecticut, it was a visceral reminder of just how far apart Hartford and Washington have drifted.

A Tale of Two Addresses: The Chamber vs The Mall

The contrast for Connecticut voters was best seen by comparing the official feed with the "counter-programming."

The Official State of the Union: A 1-hour and 48-minute marathon (the longest ever) focused on a "turnaround for the ages" and a victory lap for the administration. It was a high-gloss, high-production show of executive power, punctuated by bipartisan applause for the Olympic hockey team.

The People's State of the Union

Miles away, CT Senator Chris Murphy and Rep. Jim Himes were visible at the National Mall. At this alternative rally, the vibe was raw and combative (video here). Murphy was even interrupted by a heckler while declaring that "Democrats have to stop behaving normally." To these leaders, the official video wasn't a speech; it was a "veneer of legitimacy" they refused to provide.

CT Officials React

CT Senator Richard Blumenthal: Blumenthal was one of those who stayed in the room, choosing silent defiance over a boycott. He told reporters he refused to let the President "bully him out of the room," opting to stare down the podium as a physical representative of the opposition.

CT Rep. Jim Himes: Himes, a man who has historically prized decorum, made waves by joining the boycott. He stated that he was "sick of the lies" and could no longer participate in what he called a "propagandist diatribe."

CT Governor Ned Lamont: Staying in CT, Lamont issued a sharp statement, "For too many families....the reality of this administration can be summed up by increased costs and unpredictability. Families and businesses need stability they can count on...which has been the hallmark of how we govern in Connecticut."

Between the Lines: With Murphy and Himes protesting on the Mall, Blumenthal in silent defiance in the Chamber, and Lamont in Hartford signaling "do it our way," Connecticut is becoming a political island. Perhaps we need to adjust course.

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