Democratic lawmakers protested President Donald Trump during a speech to the Joint Session of Congress, turning the event into a partisan clash. Representatives displayed signs advocating for Medicaid, veterans, and against perceived falsehoods, with one declaring, “This is not normal.” Tensions escalated when Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas snatched a sign from Rep. Melanie Stansbury, nearly striking the president. As Trump spoke, Rep. Al Green shouted about the lack of mandate, leading to his removal by the Republican Speaker. Green, who planned to file articles of impeachment against Trump, justified his actions as a stand against cuts to social programs.
Amidst the discord, other Democrats voiced opposition. Reps. Gil Cisneros and Rashida Tlaib interjected with remarks about the stock market and Medicaid, respectively. Tlaib further conveyed her dissent through handwritten messages on a whiteboard. Eventually, Democratic lawmakers left the speech, revealing “RESIST” shirts and expressing their dissatisfaction with the president. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, in a social media post, condemned Trump’s alleged dishonesty and urged for better leadership. The scene underscored the deep divisions and confrontations within Congress, highlighting the ongoing political turmoil within the government. The clash of ideologies and the visible dissent during the address symbolized the profound disagreements and resistance present in American politics.