A Night of Confrontation: Rep. Al Green Removed During Trump’s Speech

The U.S. Congress witnessed an unprecedented moment on Tuesday night during President Donald Trump’s speech to a joint session of Congress. Representative Al Green (D-TX), a vocal critic of Trump, was escorted out of the House Chamber by the House sergeant at arms after he stood up, shook his cane at the president, and refused to stop interrupting the speech. According to presidential historian Mark Updegrove, this marked the first time in modern history that a lawmaker has been removed during a State of the Union address or a joint session of Congress. Green’s actions were seen as a bold protest against Trump’s policies, particularly his proposed cuts to Medicaid.

A Warning from the House Freedom Caucus

The incident unfolded after members of the House Freedom Caucus, a group of conservative Republicans, issued a warning earlier in the day. They called on the sergeant at arms to take action against any lawmakers who disrupted Trump’s speech. In a statement posted on social media, the caucus emphasized that the president’s address was a constitutional obligation and not an opportunity for Democrats to cause chaos. They vowed that any disruptions would result in censure, signaling a tough stance against those who dared to challenge Trump during the speech.

Historical Context: A Timeline of Congressional Disruptions

While Green’s removal is unprecedented in modern times, it is not the first instance of a lawmaker disrupting a presidential address. In 2009, Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC) famously shouted "You lie!" during President Barack Obama’s speech on healthcare. Wilson was later reprimanded by the House, and the incident marked a turning point in the increasing hostility within Congress. Similarly, during President Joe Biden’s State of the Union speeches, Republican lawmakers like Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and Lauren Boebert (R-CO) heckled the president, but none were escorted out of the chamber. Historian Mark Updegrove noted that Green’s removal represents a new level of escalation in congressional decorum.

Rep. Green’s Unapologetic Stand

Following his removal, Rep. Green showed no regret for his actions. Speaking to ABC News, he explained that he was compelled by his conscience to speak out against Trump’s plans to cut Medicaid. "There are times when it is better to stand alone than not stand at all," Green said. He doubled down on his protest, stating that he would repeat his actions if given the chance. Green also clarified that his frustration was not directed at House Speaker Mike Johnson or the officers who escorted him out, but rather at the policies he believes harm vulnerable Americans.

A Long History of Advocacy and Activism

Rep. Green’s confrontation during Trump’s speech is consistent with his long history of outspoken opposition to the former president. In 2017, he became the first Democrat to call for Trump’s impeachment, citing the firing of FBI Director James Comey. Two years later, he again pushed for impeachment, this time in response to Trump’s attacks on four Democratic congresswomen of color. More recently, Green announced plans to file impeachment articles against Trump over his suggestion that the U.S. take over the Gaza Strip. Green’s commitment to standing up for his principles has made him a thorn in Trump’s side and a champion for his constituents.

The Man Behind the Protest

Born and raised in New Orleans, Rep. Green moved to Houston in the 1970s to pursue a law degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Before entering Congress, he worked as a lawyer, served as a Justice of the Peace in Harris County for 26 years, and led the Houston branch of the NAACP. In Congress, Green has focused on issues of economic justice, fair housing, and civil rights. His unwavering dedication to these causes has earned him a reputation as a passionate advocate for the marginalized. Green’s actions on Tuesday night were not those of a reckless lawmaker but of a man driven by a deep sense of justice and a refusal to remain silent in the face of policies he believes are harmful.

In the aftermath of this incident, the House is expected to vote on a censure resolution introduced by Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA). While the consequences of Green’s actions remain to be seen, one thing is clear: his protest has sparked a broader conversation about the role of dissent in Congress and the lengths to which lawmakers are willing to go to stand up for their beliefs.