House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) faced a chaotic scene on the floor Thursday as some Democrats protested the censure of Rep. Al Green (D-TX). The protest escalated when members began singing ‘We Shall Overcome,’ drawing attention to their objections. The House voted 224-198-2 to censure Green for his outburst during President Donald Trump’s address to Congress earlier in the week. Ten Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the measure. During the vote, Johnson struggled to maintain order, repeatedly calling for calm and using his gavel to restore silence. Despite these efforts, the singing continued until Johnson declared a recess.
Rep. Al Green was removed from the chamber during Trump’s speech after his disruptive outburst. In an exclusive interview with Raw Story, Green expressed that while he accepted the punishment, it was necessary to highlight opposition to Trump’s proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security. He also criticized Trump’s perceived sense of immunity in office.
The censure resolution accused Green of a ‘breach of proper conduct.’ After the vote, Johnson read the resolution aloud, but the ongoing protest made it difficult for him to proceed. The incident marked the 28th time a member of the House has been censured. Footage from Fox News captures the chaotic moment, with lawmakers singing and Johnson banging his gavel in an attempt to restore order.
Green’s protest became a focal point of the session, drawing attention to broader political tensions within Congress. The incident highlights ongoing divisions between Democrats and Republicans over policy issues and conduct expectations for lawmakers.