A tense moment unfolded just minutes into President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress on Tuesday when veteran Democratic Representative Al Green disrupted the speech, leading to his removal from the House chamber.
As Trump touted his November 5 election victory as a “mandate,” Green—an 11-term congressman from Houston—rose from his seat, pointed his cane toward the dais, and shouted, “You have no mandate to cut Medicaid!”
Trump pressed forward, referencing his popular vote count and citing a poll suggesting Americans believe the country is on the right track. But Green refused to back down, sparking boos from the chamber and chants of “USA! USA!” from Republican lawmakers.
Ejection from the House Chamber
As the disruption escalated, House Speaker Mike Johnson intervened, pounding his gavel.
“Members must uphold decorum in the House and cease any further disruptions. That is your warning,” Johnson declared.
But Green remained defiant, continuing his protest. Moments later, Johnson called upon the sergeant at arms to remove Green from the chamber.
Speaking to ABC News afterward, Green stood by his actions.
“I am following the wishes of my conscience. There are moments when it is better to stand alone than not stand at all.”
Calls for Censure
Following the speech, Speaker Johnson condemned Green’s outburst and suggested he should be formally censured.
“It was an unnecessary spectacle. He’s made history in a terrible way, and I hope he enjoys it,” Johnson told reporters. “If Democrats want to make a 77-year-old heckler the face of their resistance, so be it. But we will not tolerate it on the House floor.”
A censure is a formal reprimand by the House, serving as an official rebuke for violating congressional decorum. Johnson stated he was “quite certain” that Republican lawmakers would introduce a censure resolution against Green and vowed to bring it to a floor vote.
Other Acts of Protest
While Green’s outburst was the most dramatic, other Democrats also signaled their opposition to Trump in subtler ways throughout the speech.
Some lawmakers silently held up black signs reading “False,” “Save Medicaid,” “Protect Veterans,” and “Musk Steals.” Others opted for a more symbolic protest, staging walkouts during key moments of Trump’s address.