Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called for Rep. Al Green (D-TX) to be censured for his “shameful” protest during President Trump’s address to Congress on Tuesday night.
Johnson’s remarks came just minutes after Trump concluded his speech, during which Green was forcibly removed from the House chamber for his disruptive outburst.
“Absolutely shameful. He should be censured,” Johnson said when asked by The Hill about the protest. “It’s a spectacle that was not necessary. He’s made history in a terrible way, and I hope he enjoys it.”
“If they want to make a 77-year-old heckling Congressman the face of their resistance, if that’s the Democrat party, so be it,” he added. “But we will not tolerate it on the House floor.”
Johnson stated he was “quite certain” that many House Republicans would introduce a resolution to censure Rep. Al Green (D-TX) for his disruptive protest, adding that he would “absolutely” bring it to the floor for consideration, the report said.
The incident occurred just minutes into Trump’s speech on Tuesday night, as the president was discussing his “mandate” to serve. Green, a 20-year House veteran, suddenly stood up and began shouting in defiance, insisting Trump had no mandate. In response, Republicans erupted into chants of “USA” as security moved to remove Green from the chamber.
After continued shouting by Green, Johnson slammed his gavel and said “members are directed to uphold and maintain decorum in the House and to cease any further disruptions. That’s your warning.”
“Members are engaging in willful and continuing breach of decorum, and the chair is prepared to direct the sergeant at arms to restore order to the joint session,” he added.
“Mr. Green, take your seat,” Johnson said. “Take your seat sir.”
When Green refused to be quiet and sit down, Johnson ordered the sergeant at arms to remove Green from the chamber. Republicans started singing “Hey, hey, hey, goodbye” to Green.
