President Donald Trump’s speech to a joint assembly of Congress on Tuesday evening encountered disruption in its opening moments due to the persistent interruptions of a congressman. As Trump asserted that his significant election triumph bestowed upon him a mandate “not witnessed in many decades,” Rep. Al Green (D, Texas) rose from his seat and vocally proclaimed, “You lack the mandate to reduce Medicaid!” and “He does not possess a mandate!” Despite attempts by Republicans to drown out Green’s objections with chants of “USA! USA!” he remained steadfast in his protest as Trump endeavored to proceed with his address. Speaker Mike Johnson (R, La.) intervened, reminding all present lawmakers of the importance of maintaining decorum in the House. Despite Johnson’s intervention, Green persisted in standing, shouting, and gesturing with his cane. Subsequently, Johnson instructed the House sergeant-at-arms to escort Green out of the chamber, a move that some journalists have labeled as “unprecedented.” Following his removal, Green addressed the press, indicating that he was crafting articles of impeachment against Trump and acknowledging uncertainty regarding potential repercussions for his actions during the speech. He emphasized, “It is essential to show that there are individuals willing to take a stand.”
Who is Al Green?
At the age of 77, Green has represented Texas’ staunchly Democratic 9th congressional district, encompassing parts of Greater Houston, since 2005. Previously, he served as a justice of the peace in Harris County. Green has garnered attention for initiating several unsuccessful impeachment endeavors against Trump during his initial term. In February, Green announced his intention to introduce impeachment articles against Trump once more, following the President’s statements regarding intervention in the strife-torn Gaza Strip.
How are individuals reacting?
Numerous individuals have expressed solidarity with the Texas congressman. Civil rights organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and Voto Latino publicly declared their support for Green. Former Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D, N.Y.) endorsed Green’s actions, suggesting that all Democrats should have accompanied Green in leaving. On the contrary, some pointed out contrasting treatment of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R, Ga.) in 2022 and 2023 when she disrupted then-President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address.
Various reactions on social media platforms include criticism of Green’s conduct, with the Trump Administration’s Rapid Response account condemning his lack of decorum. Don Jr., the President’s son, labeled Green as emblematic of the Democratic Party’s perceived decline. Humor was also injected into the situation, with right-wing media outlet Breitbart juxtaposing Green’s image with a meme from The Simpsons. Comedy Central’s The Daily Show sarcastically depicted Trump heralding the return of free speech while Green humorously found himself being whisked away in a CIA rendition van.
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