An Emotional Moment at the 2026 State of the Union Address
During his 2026 State of the Union address, President Donald Trump created a surprising and deeply moving moment before the entire U.S. Congress. He introduced the reunion between Ms. Alejandra Gonzales and her uncle, Mr. Enrique Márquez, a prominent opposition politician who had been imprisoned in Venezuela.
Mr. Enrique Márquez is an opposition leader and former presidential candidate who was arrested by security forces after speaking out against elections he alleged were fraudulent. He was held in a notorious prison in Caracas under the former regime until his release in 2026 following significant political changes in the country.
At the ceremony, President Trump announced that Mr. Márquez had been freed and was present in the gallery to reunite with his granddaughter. The entire chamber rose in a warm ovation as they watched the uncle and niece embrace tearfully in the middle of the Congressional meeting room.
Commitment to Freedom and Human Rights
President Trump affirmed that Mr. Márquez's release was part of an effort to free hundreds of political prisoners following the collapse of the former Venezuelan regime. He emphasized that the United States had worked closely with the new authorities in Venezuela to end illegal political detentions.
This event became one of the most symbolic highlights of the nationally televised speech. Through it, the Trump administration aimed to underscore stories of freedom and human rights, reflecting U.S. diplomatic efforts amidst a complex and evolving international relations landscape.
