The House of Representatives voted on Thursday to censure Texas Democratic Representative Al Green. This decision came after Green interrupted President Donald Trump during his speech to a joint session of Congress. The vote concluded with 224 members in favor and 198 opposing, with ten Democrats breaking ranks to join Republicans in supporting the censure.
Rep. Green's actions on Tuesday night led to his ejection from the House chamber. During President Trump's address, Green loudly interrupted and refused to sit down, prompting the need for disciplinary action. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, delivered the censure by reading it aloud to Green as part of the formal punishment.
The incident has sparked significant attention and debate. As Green faced the consequences of his conduct, members of the Congressional Black Caucus made a symbolic statement by singing the civil rights anthem "We Shall Overcome" once the censure was read. The gesture highlighted tensions within the chamber, with several Republicans responding by yelling "order!" in an attempt to restore decorum.
The censure reflects a serious reprimand for Green's behavior during Trump's speech, which the House deemed inappropriate and disruptive. The decision to censure a sitting member of Congress underscores the importance of maintaining order during official proceedings.
In the aftermath of the censure, Democratic Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Joyce Beatty expressed their disapproval by exclaiming "Shame on you!" This sentiment captured the frustration among some Democrats regarding the decision to discipline Green so publicly.
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