Cory Booker Could Break the Record for the Longest Senate Speech

Senator Cory Booker has launched a dramatic, filibuster-style speech on the Senate floor, speaking nonstop since last night and preventing the chamber from conducting its scheduled business. Although he is not formally blocking any specific piece of legislation or nomination, the sheer length and timing of his remarks have effectively paralyzed Senate proceedings.

I’m covering his speech, and will try to get to the Capitol tonight to cover him breaking the record live (stay tuned if I can). Consider supporting my work by becoming a paid subscriber today:

As of this post, Booker has been standing and speaking for more than 15 hours without taking a break or even using the bathroom. His speech, though not aimed at a procedural filibuster, has delayed the Senate’s planned consideration of Matthew Whitaker’s nomination to be the next U.S. Ambassador to NATO.

If he continues, Booker could challenge the all-time record for the longest Senate speech. That title currently belongs to the late Senator Strom Thurmond, who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in 1957 in opposition to the Civil Rights Act. To be Thurmond’s time, Booker would have to speak until about 7:30 PM EST tonight. Booker’s speech is already among the longest in modern Senate history and is drawing national attention for its endurance and disruption.

Senators and aides remain in a holding pattern as Booker’s speech continues, unsure when the chamber will be able to resume business. Whether or not he breaks the record, his marathon stand has already made its mark — halting a key nomination and spotlighting the power of the spoken word in the Senate.

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