Protest tied to controversial Trump social media post

Green’s protest was a direct response to a video shared on Trump’s Truth Social account that depicted former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes — a post widely condemned as racist.

After leaving the chamber, Green told reporters he wanted Trump to see the message and confront the implications of the post.

“I wanted the president to see it, and he saw it,” Green said, emphasizing the importance of publicly opposing racism.

The White House later stated the video had been posted by staff and was removed following backlash, but Trump did not issue a formal apology.

Confrontation and rising tensions inside Congress

The protest quickly escalated into confrontation, with several Republican lawmakers approaching Green and attempting to block or grab his sign. Some lawmakers engaged in verbal exchanges, and chants of “USA!” were heard as Green was escorted out.

The incident marked the second consecutive year Green had been removed from a presidential address after protesting Trump’s policies and rhetoric.

House Republican leaders indicated they may consider disciplinary action, including possible censure, similar to consequences Green faced following previous protests.

Democrats divided between protest and restraint

Green’s protest was part of broader Democratic opposition during the speech. Some lawmakers remained seated, walked out early, or openly challenged Trump’s remarks during the address.

Democratic leadership had urged members to maintain decorum, highlighting the difficult balance between protest and political strategy.

Despite those calls, Green’s protest became one of the defining moments of the night, reflecting deep divisions over Trump’s leadership, policies, and rhetoric.

A symbolic moment in a deeply divided era

The State of the Union is traditionally seen as a moment of national unity. However, Green’s removal underscored the intense political polarization defining modern American politics.

For supporters, Green’s protest represented a necessary stand against racism. For critics, it was seen as a breach of decorum during a constitutionally significant event.

Either way, the confrontation highlighted the growing tensions in Congress and the broader political climate in the United States.

Sources: AP News, Reuters, The Guardian, Axios, CNN