10 Democrats Break Ranks with Republicans to Censure Rep. Al Green Over Trump Speech Protest – What It Means for Politics

CNN —

On Thursday, ten Democrats joined House Republicans to censure Rep. Al Green. This action came after Green protested during President Donald Trump’s recent speech to Congress. The censure serves as a formal disapproval of his actions.

This vote shows the divisions within the Democratic Party. Some members took a stand against the president’s remarks, while party leaders advised against such public protests. They warned that it could give Republicans an opening to criticize them further.

Censure is a serious rebuke within Congress. While it does not impose a direct penalty, it serves as a public reprimand. It used to be rare, but it has been happening more often in recent years. It’s worth noting that censure is not as severe as expulsion.

Democrats had previously tried to stop this censure effort without success.

Rep. Green, age 77, caused a disruption during Trump’s address, leading House Speaker Mike Johnson to have him removed from the chamber. Following the incident, Green stated that he would accept the consequences and would do it again if necessary.

Speaker Johnson condemned Green’s actions, calling them “shameful and egregious.” He claimed that Green’s behavior brought disgrace to Congress.

Johnson added, “He deliberately violated House rules. A censure vote is the right response. Any Democrat who cares about restoring the trust of the American people should support this.”

This story has been updated with the latest happenings surrounding the censure.

Contributors to this story include CNN’s Aileen Graef, Sarah Ferris, and Annie Grayer.

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