US Rep. Al Green Escorted from House During Trump Speech

Green held up a sign protesting Trump's controversial social media post depicting the Obamas as apes.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 8:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Democratic U.S. Representative Al Green was escorted out of the House of Representatives chamber at the start of President Trump's State of the Union address after he held up a protest sign that read "Black people aren't apes." This was in reference to a social media video posted earlier this month by Trump that included a clip depicting former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and political divisions in Congress, as well as the controversy surrounding some of President Trump's past statements and social media posts that have been criticized as racist or insensitive.

The details

As Trump entered the House chamber, Green, a Texas Democrat, unfurled the white sign in protest. Green was the same lawmaker who shouted at Trump during his address to Congress last year.

  • On February 24, 2026, during President Trump's State of the Union address.

The players

Al Green

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Texas who was escorted out of the House chamber for protesting during President Trump's speech.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who delivered the State of the Union address.

Barack Obama

The former President of the United States who was depicted as an ape in a controversial social media video posted by Trump.

Michelle Obama

The former First Lady of the United States who was also depicted as an ape in the controversial social media video posted by Trump.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Black people aren't apes.”

— Al Green, U.S. Representative

The takeaway

This incident underscores the deep political divisions and racial tensions that continue to plague American politics, as lawmakers clash over the President's controversial statements and actions.