Democrats Protest Trump Speech; Al Green Ejected
During former President Donald Trump's address to Congress on Tuesday night, several House Democrats expressed their opposition to the president's remarks. Congressman Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, was removed from the chamber shortly after the speech began, marking the second consecutive year he has been ejected from the annual event.
Last year, Green was ordered out by House Speaker Mike Johnson for shouting responses during Trump's speech. This year, his protest was silent but visually impactful. As Trump started speaking and most attendees sat down, Green remained standing in the center aisle holding a sign that read "Black people aren’t apes!" This was a direct reference to a racist video depiction of Barack and Michelle Obama that Trump had shared previously.
Despite attempts by several Republican representatives to grab or block the sign from camera view, Green continued to hold it as he was escorted out. Representative Troy Nehls, also from Texas, was seen engaging with Green aggressively as he passed by. Senator Markwayne Mullin approached Green in a similarly confrontational manner.
As Green exited the chamber clutching both his walking stick and the protest sign, some Republicans began chanting "USA! USA!" There were tense exchanges between Green and members of the opposing party. His seat remained empty, marked only by a handwritten cardboard sign stating "Al Green."
Background and Significance of Green's Protest
Al Green has been a prominent critic of Donald Trump, notably being the first member of Congress to call for the president's impeachment as early as 2017. Representing a predominantly African American district, Green has a longstanding commitment to civil rights advocacy.
Regarding his removal from the chamber for the second time, Green stated it was "of no consequence," maintaining his sign for cameras even as he left. He emphasized his resolve, saying nothing would deter him from standing up for what he believes is right.
You have to take a stand. I am just a person who has done it – but there are many others, I believe, who would.
Other Democratic Responses During the Speech
Green was not alone in expressing dissent. Many Democrats remained seated solemnly throughout the speech, contrasting with Republicans who frequently rose to their feet and applauded after nearly every sentence delivered by Trump.
During Trump's remarks on immigration enforcement, which received a standing ovation from Republicans, and his calls for Congress to fund the Department of Homeland Security, Representative Rashida Tlaib voiced opposition. Wearing a pin that read "release the files," Tlaib shouted in response to the president about the killing of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis nurse shot by federal agents.
They saw the videos, Mr. President. They saw the videos.
Representative Ilhan Omar also vocally challenged Trump, shouting back during his accusations against Democrats.
You should be ashamed.
Omar further criticized Trump's repeated claims that Democrats "have killed Americans."
