WASHINGTON, D.C. – During President Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress, Texas Democratic Representative Al Green caused a disruption that led to his removal from the House chamber. This incident marked a departure from past presidential addresses where opposition lawmakers expressed dissent from their seats rather than being escorted out.
Green stood up and shouted at Trump after the president mentioned his 2024 election win and claimed to have a mandate. Despite warnings from House Speaker Mike Johnson, Green continued to protest, eventually being escorted out by the Sergeant at Arms. The Texas Democrat emphasized that the president did not have a mandate, expressing his defiance against Trump.
In addition to Green’s outburst, other lawmakers engaged in quieter protests during the address. A group of Democratic women left the chamber wearing “Resist” T-shirts, along with other Democrats who showed their disapproval by waving black signs that read “False.” Representative Maxwell Frost, who left the chamber during Trump’s speech, highlighted the need for protest in the current political climate, drawing parallels to the Civil Rights Movement.
As Democrats hold the minority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, many lawmakers have participated in demonstrations against the drastic policy changes implemented by the Trump administration. The visible displays of dissent during the president’s address underscored the deep political divisions in Congress and the nation as a whole.
The president’s address, typically a ceremonial event that highlights the administration’s priorities and achievements, was disrupted by the vocal opposition from certain lawmakers. Green’s removal from the chamber and the silent protests by other Democrats served as reminders of the ongoing tensions and disagreements within the political landscape. Despite attempts to maintain decorum during presidential addresses, the current political climate has heightened tensions and led to more visible displays of dissent.
In response to the disruptions during Trump’s address, various lawmakers expressed their reasons for protest and dissent, emphasizing the importance of standing up against policies they oppose. The divided reactions to the president’s speech reflect the broader challenges facing the country as it navigates through a complex and contentious political landscape.