American activist Riley Gaines criticized Democrats after many remained seated during Donald Trump’s State of the Union address when he asked lawmakers to stand if they believed the federal government’s first duty is to protect American citizens rather than illegal immigrants.
In a post on social media, Gaines said, “I can’t wait until we look back as a society and all recognize how absolutely insane and terrifying it is that an entire political party just admitted to caring more about illegal immigrants than American citizens.” Her comments came shortly after Trump addressed Congress in Washington, D.C., where he emphasized immigration enforcement as a central theme of his speech.
I can't wait until we look back as a society and all recognize how absolutely insane and terrifying it is that an entire political party just admitted to caring more about illegal immigrants than American citizens
— Riley Gaines (@Riley_Gaines_) February 25, 2026
During the address, Trump invited lawmakers to visibly show support for what he called a “fundamental principle,” telling them to stand if they agreed that “the first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens.” Republicans stood and applauded for an extended period, while many Democrats remained seated.
After the applause subsided, Trump criticized those who did not rise, telling them they should be ashamed for refusing to stand. The exchange triggered shouting from parts of the chamber, underscoring the sharp partisan divide over immigration policy.
In one of the most iconic moments in State of the Union history, Trump checkmated every Democrat by asking Congress to stand if they agree: The first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens.
— Sarah Fields (@SarahisCensored) February 25, 2026
The Democrats stayed seated. pic.twitter.com/INalCK0En6
Gaines’ remarks added to the backlash from conservative figures who portrayed Democrats’ response as evidence of misplaced priorities. Supporters of the president argued the moment showed a clear contrast between the parties on border security and enforcement, while Democrats have previously said their opposition to Trump’s framing reflects concerns about due process and humanitarian treatment of migrants.
Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer who has become a prominent conservative activist, has increasingly weighed in on broader political issues beyond sports, using social media and media appearances to criticize Democratic leadership.
