Democrats showcased a shocking display of partisanship during President Trump’s first address to Congress since his historic 2024 victory. While Republicans celebrated a cancer-surviving child and law enforcement heroes, many on the left refused to stand, erupted in protests, and one congressman was even forcibly removed from the chamber.
At a Glance
- Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) was forcibly removed from the House chamber after interrupting President Trump’s address
- Democrats remained seated during Trump’s recognition of 13-year-old brain cancer survivor DJ Daniel
- Chants of “USA” broke out after Democrats disrupted the presidential address
- Rep. Rashida Tlaib displayed messages including “NO KING” and “THAT’S A LIE” on a whiteboard
- Multiple Democrats walked out or held protest signs during Trump’s speech
Democrats Disrupt Trump’s Historic Return to Congress
President Trump’s joint address to Congress marked his first return to the House chamber since the January 6 Capitol riot. The momentous occasion quickly descended into chaos when Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) interrupted the President’s speech, forcing Speaker Mike Johnson to take extraordinary action against the Democratic lawmaker.
Green’s outburst prompted an immediate response from Republicans in the chamber. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso shouted “Sit down!” as the disruption unfolded. Following the incident, Speaker Johnson ordered the Sergeant at Arms to remove Green for violating House decorum rules, a move that sparked chants of “USA” from Republican lawmakers.
Former Trump White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer was among many conservatives who quickly condemned the Democratic disturbance on social media, suggesting it demonstrated the opposition party’s growing desperation.
Democrats Refuse to Stand for Cancer Survivor
Perhaps even more shocking than the verbal outburst was Democrats’ reaction to one of the most heartwarming moments of the night. When President Trump recognized 13-year-old brain cancer survivor DJ Daniel and announced his honorary induction into the Secret Service, most Democratic lawmakers remained firmly seated while Republicans rose in standing ovation.
The powerful moment, which brought many in the chamber to tears, highlighted DJ’s courage and resilience in the face of devastating illness. The young American’s story represented precisely the kind of non-partisan American success that typically unites lawmakers across the aisle, making Democrats’ refusal to applaud all the more striking.
Silent Protests and Walkouts
Beyond the snubbing of a brave child cancer survivor, Democratic members engaged in numerous other protest activities. Rep. Rashida Tlaib used a whiteboard to display various messages including “NO KING” and “THAT’S A LIE” throughout Trump’s address. More than 20 House Democrats held signs with messages ranging from “Save Medicaid” to simply “Lies.”
Democratic women wore pink as a protest symbol, while some members dressed in colors representing solidarity with Ukraine. Several lawmakers, including Rep. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts, walked out during the speech rather than listen to the President’s vision for America’s future.
The coordinated protests reflected deep partisan divisions that continue to plague Washington despite President Trump’s calls for unity. As Trump outlined his plans to secure the border, strengthen the economy, and restore American greatness, the Democratic protests served as a stark reminder of the challenges facing efforts to bring the country together.
