Contentious Start to the Address

The president's address was marked by significant disruption, notably when Congressman Al Green interrupted early in the speech as the president claimed a 'historic mandate' from his 2024 election victory. This confrontation led to Green's ejection from the chamber, which was met with jeers from Republican members, illustrating the sharp partisanship in the room. The president's remarks were delivered amidst a backdrop of empty seats as many Democrats, including prominent figures, chose to leave the address prematurely, suggesting a lack of engagement with the content of the speech. This environment highlighted the polarized political landscape and the broken decorum that has increasingly characterized interactions in Congress.