By Charles Switzer
7:01pm PST, Mar 6, 2025
Representative Al Green's Unprecedented Outburst
During President
Donald Trump's Tuesday, March 4, address to a joint session of Congress, Rep.
Al Green (D-TX) interrupted the speech by shouting objections, leading to his removal from the House chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
This marked a significant breach of decorum, as it's unprecedented for a member of Congress to be escorted out during a presidential address.
Here are four takeaways from Green's stunt and the fallout the lawmaker is facing…
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Democratic Colleagues Criticize Green's Actions
Several House Democrats expressed disapproval of Green's conduct.
Rep. George Latimer (D-NY) stated, "When a president — my president, your president — is speaking, we don't interrupt, we don't pull those stunts."
Similarly, Representative Tom Suozzi (D-NY) remarked, "I think it was a big mistake. … I'm an old-school traditional type guy, I think we should be treating the president with deference. So I think it was inappropriate."
House Votes to Censure Green Amid Protests
In response to Green's outburst, the House voted 224-198 to censure him. Notably, 10 Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the censure.
Following the vote, a group of Democratic lawmakers disrupted proceedings by singing "We Shall Overcome" in the chamber, leading to a brief recess.
Green Remains Unapologetic
Despite the censure and criticism from colleagues, Green stood by his actions, emphasizing his commitment to opposing policies he believes harm vulnerable populations. He expressed no regret, stating that his protest was driven by genuine concern for those affected by the administration's policies.
Broader Implications for Democratic Strategy
Green's actions have sparked a broader debate within the Democratic Party about the most effective ways to
oppose President Trump's agenda.
Some members advocate for more traditional forms of dissent, while others support more direct confrontations. This incident highlights internal divisions among progressive and more traditional Democrats in their struggle to balance principled opposition with strategic considerations.
