Representative Al Green was removed from the House chamber after interrupting President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress on Tuesday night, reports BBC.
The Democratic lawmaker from Houston, Texas, stood and shouted, “Mr President, you don’t have a mandate!” just minutes into Trump’s speech, referring to proposed Medicaid cuts. His outburst was immediately drowned out by Republicans chanting “U-S-A!” before House Speaker Mike Johnson ordered his removal.
Green, a longtime critic of Trump, previously called for his impeachment during the former president’s first term. Speaking to reporters after his ejection, he said he was prepared to face any consequences for his actions and reiterated his stance. “Trump has no mandate to cut Medicaid,” he said, adding that he is preparing articles of impeachment against the president.
“This is the richest country in the world, and we have people without access to good health care. Now, they want to cut Medicaid, which helps the poor. We have to do better.”
Medicaid, which provides health coverage for low-income individuals, has become a key issue for Democrats concerned about potential reductions. Trump has insisted Medicaid will remain intact, but achieving Republican-backed spending cuts without affecting major social services remains a challenge.
Several leading Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, invited Medicaid beneficiaries to attend the speech as a show of support. New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took to Instagram Live after the address, warning that Trump and Republicans “are coming for Medicaid.”
Green’s protest was not the only act of defiance in the chamber. Some Democratic women wore pink dresses to highlight rising costs disproportionately affecting women, while others donned yellow and blue ties in solidarity with Ukraine. Trump recently announced a pause on all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, days after a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
While Democrats largely remained seated and silent during Trump’s speech, some held up placards reading “False” in response to certain claims. Republicans, by contrast, frequently erupted into applause and chanted “U-S-A!” throughout the address.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
