Democrats faced intense criticism for their disruptive behavior during President Donald Trump’s address to Congress, with conservative commentators like Ben Shapiro likening their actions to “moody teenagers” throwing a tantrum. The chaotic scene included , , and Rep. Al Green (D-TX) being forcibly removed after repeatedly shouting protests and waving his cane. House Speaker Mike Johnson condemned the behavior as a “spectacle,” while White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called it “completely disgraceful” and evidence of Democrats being “out of touch” with everyday Americans.
### Key Breakdown of the Night
– : Green interrupted Trump’s speech within minutes, yelling, “You have no mandate to cut Medicaid!” After ignoring multiple warnings, he was escorted out by the Sergeant-at-Arms. Green later said he’d “accept whatever punishment” came his way.
– : GOP lawmakers swiftly moved to censure Green, accusing him of violating congressional decorum and “bringing disrepute” to the institution. House Freedom Caucus members labeled the behavior “unacceptable”.
– : Late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert roasted Democrats’ response, comparing their dissent to “bidding on an antique tea set” rather than serious opposition.
### Broader Democratic Struggles
The incident highlighted deeper issues within the party:
1. : Democrats remain split between progressive activists pushing aggressive resistance and moderates urging restraint. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) recently argued for “flood the zone with truth” to counter Republicans, but the party’s approval rating sits at just .
2. : With no unifying message or leader, Democrats have resorted to stunts over substance, according to critics like Ben Shapiro, who accused them of having “NOTHING” but “panic” ahead of the 2024 election.
Conservatives framed the night as a microcosm of Democratic dysfunction—a party more focused on performative outrage than governance. As Shapiro quipped, “When your strategy is to scream and wave a cane, you’ve already lost.”
