Health officials have confirmed the first measles case in Harris County since 2019, involving a child under 18 living in the northwest part of the county.
Case Details & Investigation
Harris County Public Health reported on Thursday that the child had no recent travel history and had received only one dose of the recommended two-dose measles vaccine. The child was not hospitalized and has since fully recovered.
The case is awaiting secondary confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services. In the meantime, HCPH is conducting contact tracing to identify anyone who may have been exposed.
Measles Case Investigation in Harris County 🚨
Harris County Public Health is investigating a confirmed measles case in a child with no travel history in northwest Harris County. Contact tracing is underway to identify any exposed individuals.
— Harris County Public Health #GetVaxxed (@hcphtx) April 3, 2025
Low Risk of Widespread Outbreak
Dr. Ericka Brown of HCPH says there is no immediate concern about a broader outbreak due to Harris County’s high vaccination rate—94%, just shy of the 95% recommended by the CDC for herd immunity.
“Even with strong coverage, breakthrough cases can happen, but we are well protected,” Brown said.
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms include:
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Rash appearing 3–5 days after initial symptoms
Vaccination and Exposure Guidance
The first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended between 12–15 months, with a second dose at 4–6 years. If exposed, individuals should quarantine and monitor symptoms for 21 days.
Declining Vaccination Rates Raise Concerns
A recent national report shows fewer children are getting vaccinated on time. In 2024, only 69% received their first dose by 15 months, down from 77% in 2020. By age six, only 80% had received both recommended doses.
Measles in Texas
As of April 1, the state has reported 422 measles cases, highlighting the importance of timely immunizations.
Though mask-wearing is not currently advised, officials stress that vaccination remains the best defense—especially for children and those unable to be vaccinated.
Keep up with the measles outbreak and prevention with us on Que Onda Magazine.
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We are declaring Saturday an ABC13 Weather Watch Day for the possibility of severe weather. Areas especially along and east of the I-45 corridor have a chance for hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes.
But before we get to Saturday, we have a warm and muggy end to the week. It will also be windy on Friday with gusts to 40 mph. A Wind Advisory will be in effect from 7am-7pm Friday.
Rain chances go up a bit more Friday with a 30% chance of rain for Houston and a 40% chance for areas north of Conroe. A couple of strong to severe storms are possible Friday in our northern counties. Make sure you stay weather aware in case you end up with a strong storm near you. Rain chances become widespread Saturday and severe storms will be a possibility.
What can you tell me about Saturday’s strong cold front?
The cold front will pass through our area Saturday afternoon. Our atmosphere will be unstable enough for strong to severe storms to occur with the front. Once the front passes, most of the rain will end and temps will fall. We’re talking highs in the 60s Sunday and Monday. Lows will drop to the lower 50s and upper 40s Monday and Tuesday mornings.
Does this mean drought conditions will improve?
Likely improve, yes! Completely relieved? Not for everyone. The rain from this past week and what’s expected this week will be beneficial though for those with drought conditions.
Houston’s biggest annual event is getting even bigger. RodeoHouston has announced that the 2026 edition of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will include an extra day of festivities—marking the first expansion of the event since 2022.
Mark Your Calendars: March 2–22, 2026
Traditionally a 20-day celebration, RodeoHouston will now stretch to 21 days, running from March 2 to March 22, 2026. The rodeo competitions themselves will take place over the first 20 days, culminating in the exciting Rodeo Finals on March 21.
But the fun doesn’t stop there.
A Concert-Only Finale at NRG Stadium
On March 22, the spotlight will shine on a yet-to-be-announced musical superstar who will headline a special concert-only night at NRG Stadium. There will be no rodeo events that day—just music, lights, and what promises to be a massive crowd.
This bonus show format echoes the unforgettable 2022 performance by George Strait, who closed out RodeoHouston that year with a legendary standalone concert. Fans can expect a similar high-profile act for 2026, with the official headliner announcement expected next month. The full concert lineup will be released in early 2026.
Everything You Love—Still There on the Final Day
Rodeo enthusiasts can still enjoy their favorite attractions on the final day, including:
The Carnival
Champion Wine Garden
AGVENTURE kids’ activities
Rodeo shopping and food vendors
From deep-fried delicacies to dazzling rides and live country performances, the last day will be packed with experiences, even if the bulls and broncs take a break.
Who Should Headline the Final Show?
RodeoHouston fans are already buzzing about who should take the stage for this bonus concert. Would you love to see a country legend like Reba McEntire or a crossover star bring down the house?
Jump into the conversation and share your dream headliner! Keep up with RodeoHouston news with us on Que Onda Magazine.
NASA has provided a new update on asteroid 2024 YR4, a space rock once thought to pose a minimal threat to Earth. The latest calculations show the asteroid is now slightly more likely to impact the Moon—though the odds remain low.
Initially discovered in December 2024 by astronomers using a telescope in the Chilean desert, 2024 YR4 had a very slim chance of colliding with Earth in 2032. However, NASA has now reduced that already small possibility to a near-negligible 0.004%.
In a twist, scientists report that the asteroid’s chances of striking the Moon on December 22, 2032, have increased—from 1.7% to 3.8%. This new assessment is based on refined tracking data from several observatories, including the powerful James Webb Space Telescope.
Courtesy of NASA.gov.
Still, NASA emphasized that there’s a 96.2% probability the asteroid will miss the Moon entirely. Even in the unlikely event of an impact, it would not affect the Moon’s orbit.
Infrared imaging from the Webb telescope has also helped scientists better understand the asteroid’s size, which is estimated to be between 53 to 67 meters—roughly the height of a 10-story building.
Since its discovery, dozens of other near-Earth objects have traveled closer to Earth than the Moon. Many of these small bodies either passed by unnoticed or burned up in Earth’s atmosphere without incident.
Although a lunar impact remains unlikely, scientists say it could present a rare and valuable opportunity. “It would be a great experiment and a perfect opportunity,” said Professor Mark Burchell, a space science expert at the University of Kent, in an interview with New Scientist.
“Telescopes would certainly be able to observe it—and possibly even binoculars,” he added.
NASA and the James Webb Space Telescope are scheduled to monitor 2024 YR4 again next month for more data and to continue refining the asteroid’s predicted path.
CinemaCon 2025, held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, brought the film industry together to celebrate the magic of cinema and unveil an impressive slate of upcoming theatrical releases. From superhero blockbusters to family-friendly adventures and spine-chilling horror films, here’s a detailed breakdown of the biggest announcements from Warner Bros., Universal Pictures, Disney, Paramount, and Amazon MGM.
Warner Bros.
Warner Bros. focused on its 2025 slate, offering glimpses of both franchise staples and standalone projects:
“Superman!”: The highly anticipated reboot directed by James Gunn was the centerpiece of the presentation. Gunn emphasized the film’s blend of humanity and spectacle, with stars David Corenswet (Superman) and Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane) joining him on stage to discuss their roles.
“Mortal Kombat II”: A sizzle reel featured Karl Urban as Johnny Cage in action-packed sequences alongside Scorpion’s iconic “Get over here!” moment.
“Final Destination 6”: The franchise returns with a fresh take on its death-defying premise, teasing a darker tone and more elaborate set pieces.
Other titles included The Conjuring: Last Rites and Wonka Returns, though no major updates were shared about future DC projects like Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.
Universal Pictures
Universal delivered a mix of blockbuster franchises and original titles:
“Wicked: For Good”: Stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo introduced a trailer showcasing the emotional fallout between Elphaba and Glinda. Musical numbers like “For Good” and “No Good Deed” were highlighted.
“Jurassic World: Rebirth”: Scarlett Johansson headlined the new trailer, which included a thrilling high-seas chase involving a Mosasaurus. The film promises to expand the Jurassic universe with fresh characters and settings.
Blumhouse Projects: Trailers for M3GAN 2.0, Black Phone 2, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, and SOULM8TE reinforced Universal’s dominance in the horror genre.
Family-friendly films like The Bad Guys 2 and a live-action How to Train Your Dragon remake (with its sequel already greenlit) rounded out the slate.
Disney & Marvel Studios
Disney’s presentation was packed with updates across its divisions:
Marvel Cinematic Universe:
“Thunderbolts” (May 2025): Footage introduced the anti-hero ensemble featuring Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” (July 2025): The first family of Marvel was formally introduced, with Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards leading the cast.
Animated Features:
Inside Out 2 and Elio showcased Pixar’s continued commitment to heartfelt storytelling.
Live-Action Adaptations:
A sneak peek at Lilo & Stitch revealed faithful recreations of beloved characters, while Freakier Friday teased Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan reprising their roles.
Disney also teased its ambitious 2026 slate, including Avengers: Doomsday, a live-action Moana, and Toy Story 5.
Paramount Pictures
Paramount leaned heavily on its flagship franchises while also introducing new projects:
“Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning”: Tom Cruise appeared via video to discuss the film’s groundbreaking stunts. A new trailer highlighted Ethan Hunt’s most dangerous mission yet.
Family-Friendly Films:
Smurfs will feature Smurfette leading a daring rescue mission into the real world.
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants blends animation with live action in an underworld adventure featuring Mark Hamill as the Flying Dutchman.
Other notable mentions included Edgar Wright’s adaptation of The Running Man and an animated Avatar: The Last Airbender movie slated for late 2025.
Amazon MGM Studios
Making their CinemaCon debut, Amazon MGM emphasized their commitment to theatrical releases:
“Project Hail Mary”: Ryan Gosling joined directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller to present footage from this adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel. The sci-fi epic promises humor, heart, and stunning visuals when it releases in March 2026.
James Bond Franchise:
Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are working on a “fresh chapter” for Bond while respecting its legacy. Although no casting updates were provided, excitement remains high for this next installment.
Other projects included Luca Guadagnino’s thriller Mercy and Travis Knight’s live-action Masters of the Universe, which aims to balance nostalgia with modern fantasy aesthetics.
CinemaCon 2025 reaffirmed Hollywood’s dedication to theatrical experiences with a diverse array of films that cater to all audiences. From superhero sagas to musical adaptations, studios are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year at the movies.
Fans of Superman are buzzing with excitement following the release of an extended sneak peek for James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, which debuted at CinemaCon 2025. The preview, which highlights a blend of action, humor, and emotional depth, offers a glimpse into the highly anticipated reboot of DC’s iconic superhero franchise.
A Focus on Superman and Krypto
One of the standout moments from the sneak peek is the dynamic between Superman (played by David Corenswet) and his loyal companion, Krypto the Superdog. The footage begins with Superman crash-landing in the Arctic, visibly injured. Struggling to summon help, he whistles for Krypto, who arrives in a snowy flurry and playfully tackles his owner. Despite Superman’s pain, Krypto’s boundless energy adds a touch of humor to the scene as he drags the Man of Steel across the tundra toward his home—the Fortress of Solitude.
The Fortress of Solitude Unveiled
The sneak peek also reveals a stunning depiction of Superman’s iconic Fortress of Solitude. As Krypto approaches with Superman in tow, a crystal structure emerges from the ground, complete with glowing doors bearing Superman’s emblem. Inside, advanced automatons tend to Superman’s injuries, diagnosing him with 14 fractured bones and organ damage. Using a concentrated dose of sunlight—a nod to Superman’s Kryptonian physiology—the robots heal him in a dramatic sequence that leaves him screaming as his body regenerates.
A Glimpse at Lex Luthor and Lois Lane
The preview doesn’t stop at Krypto and the Fortress. It also introduces Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, offering a brief but menacing look at Superman’s arch-nemesis. Additionally, Rachel Brosnahan shines as Lois Lane in scenes hinting at her romance with Clark Kent. These moments suggest that Gunn’s film will balance superhero action with character-driven storytelling.
A New Era for DC Films
James Gunn’s Superman marks the beginning of a new shared cinematic universe for DC Studios, replacing the previous DC Extended Universe. With Gunn at the helm as both writer and director, fans can expect a fresh take on Superman that blends traditional elements with modern sensibilities. The film also features an ensemble cast including Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor.
Release Date
Scheduled for theatrical release on July 11, 2025, Superman is shaping up to be one of the most exciting films of the year. The sneak peek has already sparked enthusiasm among fans eager to see how Gunn revitalizes one of comic book history’s most beloved heroes after more than a decade without a standalone Superman movie.
Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to give your education or career a boost, Lone Star College-University Park (LSC-UP) has you covered! LSC-UP offers a wide variety of exciting and convenient summer classes designed to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you’re a high school student looking to earn credit, a college student aiming to speed up graduation, or a professional wanting a career change, LSC-UP has something for you.
“Lone Star College has numerous resources (academic, financial and student support) to help you make a sustainable plan toward earning a college degree, transferring to a four-year institution or entering the workforce,” said Jamie Posey, LSC associate vice chancellor, Student Success and Completion. “Lone Star College aims to train future leaders through top-level academic and workforce programs.”
Summer registration is open for anyone interested in starting, continuing or completing their college education. May Mini-Term begins May 12 and ends June 8; Summer I runs June 2-July 8 and Summer II starts July 10 and ends Aug. 17.
Some of the benefits of taking summer classes at LSC-UP:
Flexibility: Lone Star College-University Park offers more than 70 programs of study, including credit and non-credit courses, workforce training, and continuing education classes. Classes are available during the day, evenings, and weekends in traditional, online, and hybrid formats. Take the classes that work best for your schedule!
Finish Faster: Taking summer classes lets you progress in your degree or complete your program quicker. This means you can start working sooner, earning more money, and achieving your goals faster.
Affordability: Lone Star College – University Park is known for its low and affordable tuition. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid are available for qualifying students, making higher education even more accessible.
Exceptional Instructors: LSC-UP boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to your success. You’ll benefit from smaller class sizes allowing for more interaction and personalized learning opportunities.
Wide Range of Courses: LSC-UP offers a vast selection of summer courses across diverse areas of study, from business and computer science to liberal arts and sciences. Whether you’re looking for prerequisite courses, core classes, or certification programs, you’ll find what you need at LSC-UP.
Maximize Your Summer: Don’t let your summer pass you by! Summer classes are a great way to be productive, stay engaged with your studies, and move one step closer to your goals.
In addition, LSC-UP also offers the following for summer students:
Comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
A beautiful, innovative campus located in northwest Houston, with state of the art facilities and instruction.
A warm and supportive environment that will make you feel welcome and included.
Lone Star College-University Park is committed to helping you achieve your dreams. Enroll in summer classes today and start your path to success!
Established in 2012, Lone Star College-University Park has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing and most innovative higher education institutions in the country. The college, led by President Matthew Dempsey, Ed.D., is devoted to impacting the community’s prosperity and upward mobility through student success. LSC-University Park’s expert and compassionate faculty and staff provide students with holistic and immersive education and training in disciplines and industries that meet current and future workforce needs.
Located on the grounds of the former Compaq Computer Corporation and Hewlett Packard’s world headquarters, LSC-University Park’s facilities include the Center for Science & Innovation, the Energy & Manufacturing Institute, Visual & Performing Arts Building, Learning Innovation Labs, and the Geology Rock Wall. It is also home to the University of Houston-NW Downtown, Lone Star Corporate College, and iSchool. To learn more about LSC-University Park or register for classes, visit www.LoneStar.edu/StartUP, call 281-290-2600 or email UPAdvising@LoneStar.edu.
Lone Star College System (LSCS) enrolls over 90,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSCS is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSCS, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area and has been named a 2024 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education. LSCS consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.
In a proclamation titled “Liberation Day,” President Donald Trump unveiled a comprehensive strategy to address chronic trade deficits and implement reciprocal tariffs.
The plan, unveiled at a Rose Garden event at the White House, comprises a two-step approach.
Effective April 5, a baseline tariff rate of 10% will be imposed on all countries. Subsequently, additional tariffs will be levied on certain nations deemed significant trade offenders, starting April 9. These additional rates will cover both tariffs and non-tariff barriers that have been a persistent source of concern for the administration.
A chart presented at the event outlined the specific tariff rates for various countries. Notably, China will face a 34% tariff, while the European Union will be subject to a 20% duty. In response to the clamor for protection, Trump emphasized the need for countries to stop imposing their own tariffs and dismantling trade barriers.
However, Trump acknowledged that the tariff calculations only represent a portion of the unfair trade practices he has identified. He asserted that he could have imposed even higher tariffs. He characterized his approach as “kind reciprocal,” emphasizing a mutual benefit of the measures.
To implement the tariffs, Trump will declare a national emergency based on the persistent trade deficits. This declaration will invoke the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a 1977 law that has been used since Trump’s inauguration to impose duties on Canada, Mexico, and China in response to concerns related to illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
While the implementation of the tariffs remains uncertain, their potential impact on the global trading system is significant. If successful, this move could represent the culmination of Trump’s decades-long advocacy for tariffs and his assertion that unfair trade practices have adversely affected the United States.
In a statement released on Wednesday, President Trump anticipated potential criticism from globalists, asserting that all predictions made by his opponents over the past three decades have proven inaccurate.
This announcement represents a compromise between two competing tariff strategies that the president and his team have been considering and debating within the administration for recent weeks.
One initial plan involved imposing varying duties on different countries, while another advocated for a flat universal rate, a position that Trump campaigned on during the 2024 election.
The highly anticipated unveiling of this strategy comes at a critical juncture for the economy and markets, with stocks experiencing volatility due to the ever-changing nature of tariff news. Furthermore, there is limited evidence that this week’s announcement will swiftly alleviate investor uncertainty.
Worldwide retaliation against Trump’s plan has already been pledged, with nations such as China, Japan, and South Korea expressing their intention to collaborate and jointly respond to his actions.
Capitol Economics noted in a statement on Wednesday that uncertainty may persist in the stock market even after today’s announcement, attributing it to the president’s unpredictable approach to imposing tariffs.
Beyond tariffs, the strategy unveiled on Wednesday represents an effort by the president and his team to address not only tariffs but also so-called non-tariff barriers that have long been a source of contention for him.
Trump’s team incorporated a diverse range of practices into its calculations, including currency manipulation, value-added taxes, export subsidies, technical barriers, and agricultural constraints.
A senior administration official explained to reporters that tariffs are tailored to each country, based on the principle that the trade deficit with a particular nation is the sum of all unfair trade practices and cheating.
The president underscored that, in many cases, non-monetary barriers were more detrimental than monetary ones. Some of the barriers mentioned by Trump and his team may be relatively straightforward for countries to address, while others, particularly those like Europe’s value-added tax, could pose more significant challenges. Others may be easier to overcome. For instance, India has already expressed its intention to repeal its current digital service tax as part of ongoing negotiations.
On Wednesday, the president also announced another instance of Trump relying on novel legal authorities to implement his tariffs through the application of a 1977 law known as the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This tactic allows him to act swiftly, but it also carries the potential for legal challenges in the coming months, as relevant portions of the law have not been legally tested in several decades.
In contrast, other duties have been pursued through a different and more legally tested authority derived from Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, specifically focused on national security. This authority was used to impose 25% duties on automobiles this week.
The diverse range of authorities employed, coupled with the emphasis on legally untested expedited actions, has garnered significant opposition from Trump’s critics. Katherine Tai, former President Joe Biden’s trade representative, expressed this sentiment in a call before the unveiling, stating, “An examination of the legal authority employed will determine whether an immediate action is taken or whether more time is required. We are witnessing an increasing disregard for legal compliance within our own system and an emboldened administration that disregards the requirements of legal compliance.”
Wednesday’s tariff unveiling arrives at a politically fraught time for Trump, following the Republican Party’s disappointing performance in Tuesday’s special elections and with the Senate poised to pass a resolution to nullify Trump’s tariffs on Canada.
The apprehension surrounding tariffs is so intense that at least a few Republicans are poised to join Democrats in voting against the White House and in favor of the resolution.
“They share our concerns about the tariffs,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer remarked on Wednesday afternoon.
Undeterred, the administration remained steadfast on Wednesday. President Trump appeared triumphant as his long-awaited announcement finally commenced. The White House reported that the president has secured approximately $5 trillion in new company investments since taking office and released a fact sheet detailing the effectiveness of tariffs.
In his remarks on Wednesday, President Trump emphasized, “It is a testament to my unwavering commitment to fulfilling my promises.”
Val Kilmer was an American actor, best known for his versatile roles in both blockbuster films and smaller, more nuanced performances. He was born on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, California. Kilmer gained widespread recognition in the 1980s and 1990s for his roles in a variety of films, and his career was marked by his dedication to bringing unique characters to life. On April 1, 2025, Kilmer died of pneumonia at his Los Angeles home at age 65
Some of his most notable roles included:
1. Top Gun (1986) – Kilmer became an international star for his portrayal of the cool and cocky fighter pilot “Iceman” alongside Tom Cruise. This role remained one of his most iconic, and the film itself became a pop culture touchstone.
2. Batman Forever (1995) – Kilmer played Bruce Wayne/Batman in this film directed by Joel Schumacher. While the movie received mixed reviews, Kilmer’s portrayal of the Caped Crusader was often remembered for its dark and brooding take on the character, even though the film itself took a more campy approach.
3. The Doors (1991) – Kilmer portrayed Jim Morrison, the lead singer of The Doors, in this Oliver Stone-directed biographical film. His performance was widely praised, and Kilmer even sang some of Morrison’s songs in the film, showcasing his musical talent.
4. Tombstone (1993) – Kilmer’s portrayal of Doc Holliday, the witty and sickly gunslinger, in this Western was considered one of his best performances. His chemistry with Kurt Russell, who played Wyatt Earp, added depth to the film’s portrayal of the American Old West.
5. Heat (1995) – In Michael Mann’s crime drama, Kilmer played Chris Shiherlis, a professional thief. The film featured an ensemble cast including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and his “Val” co-star, Tom Sizemore.
Val Kilmer was also known for his extensive stage work and a few notable documentaries. He had performed on Broadway and in regional theater productions, showcasing his acting range.
In recent years, Kilmer dealt with health issues. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, which required surgery and led to a significant change in his voice. He documented this journey in the 2020 documentary “Val,” which highlighted his life and career and revealed his struggles with his health, giving fans an intimate look at the actor’s life.
Val Kilmer was often remembered for his commitment to his craft and his ability to embody complex characters, making him a memorable figure in Hollywood history. His career also reflected a mix of commercial blockbusters and critically acclaimed performances.
In a powerful display of endurance and defiance, Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey delivered a groundbreaking 25-hour speech on the Senate floor starting on March 31, 2025, at 7 p.m. EDT. This marathon speech was not just a test of his physical stamina but also a forceful protest against policies of President Donald Trump’s administration.
Booker’s address surpassed the previous record for the longest continuous Senate speech, held by Senator Strom Thurmond, who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in 1957 to oppose the Civil Rights Act. With his historic speech, Booker aimed to challenge the Trump administration’s policies and shed light on issues that he and many others see as deeply concerning.
A Stand Against the Trump Administration
The content of Booker’s speech was a vehement critique of multiple aspects of President Trump’s administration. Booker condemned efforts to eliminate the Department of Education, denounced the administration’s disregard for judicial mandates, and expressed grave concern over the deportation of participants in the 2024 pro-Palestinian protests that took place on college campuses across the nation.
He also spoke out against the administration’s budget proposals, which called for significant cuts to social services and massive layoffs within the Department of Health and Human Services. Booker voiced strong objections to the increasing involvement of Elon Musk in government efficiency initiatives, calling into question the administration’s priorities.
Throughout his speech, Booker’s words echoed with moral urgency, likening the current moment to the struggles faced by past generations fighting for justice. Drawing inspiration from civil rights leader John Lewis, Booker spoke passionately about the importance of standing against injustice, no matter the cost.
A Moment of Reflection and Personal Endurance
Though Booker’s speech was primarily focused on political issues, it was also deeply personal. He took moments to reflect on the broader implications of standing up against policies that harm the vulnerable, referencing his own role in advocating for justice and equality.
As Booker continued his impassioned address, fellow Democrats rallied around him, providing breaks by asking questions to allow him a brief respite. This collective show of support from his colleagues highlighted the solidarity and determination within the Democratic Party to resist policies they felt were harmful to their constituents.
Booker’s marathon speech also captivated the public, who closely followed the event both in the Senate and on various media platforms. The speech had the feel of a national event, with many viewers applauding Booker’s resilience and his willingness to speak truth to power.
A Symbol of Resistance
The conclusion of Booker’s speech, which wrapped up at 8:06 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2025, was met with a standing ovation from his colleagues in the Senate. For many, this was more than just a record-breaking event—it was a clear message of resistance. Booker’s unwavering dedication and willingness to use the tools of the Senate to fight against what he sees as an unjust agenda has sparked renewed discussions about the power of the filibuster in modern American politics.
This 25-hour speech marks a defining moment in Booker’s career, drawing attention to the ways in which senators can use their platform to resist, protest, and bring attention to pressing issues facing the country. The event has already been hailed as a pivotal act of defiance against the policies of the Trump administration, and many are watching closely to see what impact this will have on future political movements and the Senate’s role in holding the executive branch accountable.
