Protest

Rep. Al Green again escorted out of chamber after protest

The Texas Democrat held a sign reading “BLACK PEOPLE AREN’T APES.”

By Katherine Tully-McManus and Mia McCarthy

Democratic Rep. Al Green was removed from the House chamber at a second consecutive presidential address to Congress Tuesday.

The Texas lawmaker was escorted out by House personnel after holding up a sign in the center aisle reading “BLACK PEOPLE AREN’T APES!” as President Donald Trump entered the chamber ahead of his address to Congress.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise swiped at the sign as he entered with the president, and multiple GOP members including Reps. Pat Fallon of Texas and John McGuire of Virginia tried to block the sign from cameras. Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas also tried to convince Green to stand down, while GOP Sens. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma and Roger Marshall of Kansas walked over to stand in front of the sign right before he was removed.

The sign is an apparent reference to a racist depiction of former President Barack and former first lady Michelle Obama that Trump posted to his Truth Social account earlier this month and later deleted.

Green, has repeatedly sought to impeach Trump, was removed from last year’s address after interrupting Trump and waving his cane at him. He stood through the start of the speech Tuesday, holding the sign while the rest of the chamber was seated.

GOP lawmakers and Trump allies chanted “USA, USA” as Green was removed from the chamber.

Addressing reporters outside the chamber, Green said “we must take a stand against this level of discrimination.”

Green added that he “would do it again,” though he might not have that chance: He is at risk of losing a contested primary next week, potentially ending his House career after 11 terms.