Mark Ruffalo sharply criticized Donald Trump’s presidency during a Washington, DC event held in opposition to Trump’s State of the Union address, expressing deep concern over the direction of the nation. The Marvel actor condemned the administration’s priorities, stating that Americans feel fearful and angry amid what he called a moral and leadership crisis.
Highlighting a Nation Marked by Division and Uncertainty
Speaking via video at the “State of the Swamp” gathering, Ruffalo described the country as profoundly divided yet unified in its unease about where it’s heading. He warned that many Americans are gripped by fear and anger as policies linked to Trump’s Project 2025 begin to take shape, reflecting the influence of wealthy individuals and powerful industries such as fossil fuels, pharmaceuticals, and the tech sector.
Ruffalo also voiced apprehension about the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence without adequate safeguards for workers, suggesting that everything under this administration serves financial interests rather than the public good.
“Everything is to serve this administration’s financial gain and nothing has been to serve the people’s gain,”
he said. His stark conclusion was,
“We have lost our way. That’s the state of the union.”
Calling for a complete overhaul of the democratic process, Ruffalo criticized both major political parties, urging Americans to reconsider the current system and chart a new path forward.
Mark Ruffalo’s Consistent Criticism of Donald Trump
Ruffalo’s opposition to Trump is longstanding. At the 2026 Golden Globes, he condemned Trump as
“the worst human being in the world,”
highlighting the former president’s disregard for international law, in particular military actions in Venezuela. During that event, Ruffalo wore a “Be Good” pin honoring Renee Nicole Good, a victim of an ICE shooting.
His criticisms continued through 2025 when, amid protests in Manhattan, Ruffalo likened Trump to a “king and dictator,” condemning harsh immigration enforcement and accusing the president of ignoring foundational American principles. Online, Ruffalo labeled Trump a “grifter,” claiming he prioritized the interests of “billionaire pals” over regular citizens.
After Trump’s re-election in November 2024, Ruffalo addressed supporters at an ACLU event, acknowledging the political defeat but emphasizing resilience. He admitted,
“The progressive movement had ‘got our asses kicked,’”
but insisted that the moment required turning despair into activism. Earlier, in July 2024, he had issued a strong warning that a second Trump term would be defined by “an extremist and perverse ideology.”
Other Public Figures Join in Strong Opposition
Ruffalo is among several celebrities voicing strong criticism of Trump. At the same Washington counter-event, Robert De Niro called Trump an “enemy of this country” and a “wannabe gangster,” urging Americans to resist and remove the former president. The tone of the event was charged with emotion and defiance.
Singer Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas voiced their worries about the risks Trump’s return posed to reproductive rights and the democratic system. Musicians including Bruce Springsteen and the band U2 have also publicly opposed Trump, highlighting a growing coalition of prominent voices using their platforms to protect democratic ideals and vulnerable communities.
This widespread celebrity dissent adds pressure on voters and policymakers, as these figures connect with millions worldwide and channel rising concerns about Trump’s influence on the country’s future.
