The House of Representatives has formally censured Texas Democratic Representative Al Green following his disruption of President Donald Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress earlier this week. The vote to censure Green concluded with 224 members in favor and 198 against, reflecting bipartisan support for the disciplinary action. Notably, ten Democrats crossed party lines to join Republicans in sanctioning Green.
The censure was announced by House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, who read the formal rebuke aloud in the chamber. This act served as a public reprimand for Green's actions, which included loudly interrupting President Trump and subsequently refusing to sit down when asked. As a result of his conduct, Speaker Johnson ordered Green's ejection from the House chamber on Tuesday night.
Following the delivery of the censure, members of the Congressional Black Caucus expressed their solidarity by singing the iconic civil rights anthem "We Shall Overcome." A handful of Republican members responded by shouting "order!" in an attempt to restore decorum within the chamber.
"Shame on you!" – Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Joyce Beatty
Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Joyce Beatty also voiced their disapproval towards GOP representatives, echoing sentiments of frustration and dissent. The incident underscored the tension and division within the House during President Trump's address.
The censure represents a formal reprimand for Green's actions, emphasizing the seriousness with which the House views disruptions during official proceedings. The decision to censure Green involved a rare display of bipartisan agreement, indicative of the broader commitment to maintaining order and respect within legislative sessions.