On Wednesday, Congressman Al Green was removed from Congress following his disruption of President Donald Trump's first address to the legislative body. Green, a 78-year-old Democrat representing Texas, protested against the White House's plans to slash Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security by rising from his seat and raising his cane in defiance as Trump spoke to the chamber.
The uproar from Republicans, who responded with cheers and Trump's rallying cry "USA!", drowned out Green's protest. Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, presiding over the session, instructed security to remove the congressman after calling him to order.
The atmosphere in the chamber was one of stark division: Democratic jeers clashed with Republican applause, clearly reflecting the political tensions surrounding the president. Amid the chaos, Johnson and Vice President JD Vance, seated behind Trump, stood to restore order and quell the jeers.
Mike Johnson emphasized the need for decorum, urging attendees to respect the "quorum of the House." Trump's speech was able to proceed without further disruptions, thanks to this intervention.
Following his ejection, Al Green addressed the media, expressing his willingness to accept any penalties for his actions but standing firm in his convictions. "I'll take the punishment. It's worth it to let people know that some of us will oppose this president's desire to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security," the congressman stated.
This incident highlighted the deep political divides within the U.S. Congress, with a tense atmosphere prevailing during the president's address. Green's standoff, an ongoing critic of Trump, underscores the persistent polarization in American politics, even during formal events like a presidential speech to the House.
His protest resonated with Democrats and Americans opposed to Trump's policies, who have watched with concern as the new president has signed controversial executive orders with little resistance.
Political Tensions in U.S. Congress
Why was Congressman Al Green removed from Congress?
Congressman Al Green was removed from Congress for interrupting President Donald Trump's speech as a form of protest against plans to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
What was the reaction in Congress during the protest?
The chamber was divided, with Republican cheers and chants of "USA!" overpowering Democratic jeers, highlighting the political tensions present.
What did Al Green say after his removal?
After being ejected, Al Green stated he would accept any sanctions for his behavior, emphasizing the importance of opposing cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.