'Black people aren't apes!' US lawmaker Al Green escorted out for protest during Donald Trump's speech
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 25, 2026
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US Representative Al Green, a Black Democratic congressman from Texas, was removed from the House chamber during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address after holding up a sign reading “Black people aren’t apes!” The protest was a direct response to a racist video shared on Trump’s Truth Social account earlier this month, which depicted former Presidents Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys. Although the video was later deleted by the White House, Trump denied responsibility, claiming it was posted by a staff member without his knowledge.
The incident occurred as Trump began his speech before a joint session of Congress. Green stood and waved the sign towards Trump as he walked down the aisle. Republican leaders, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, attempted to block Green’s actions. Despite their efforts, Green remained in place and continued to display the sign until a staff member escorted him out of the chamber amid chants of “USA! USA!” Outside, Green told CNN, “I wanted the president to see it, and he saw it. I told him Black people are not apes.”
This was not the first time Green had disrupted a Trump address. Last year, during another joint session, Green was removed after standing and shouting at the president at the beginning of the speech. Green has used such disruptions as a political tool to draw attention to issues he deems important, often facing criticism from Republicans for his actions.
The event highlights the ongoing tensions between Trump and Green, as well as broader debates about race and free speech in US politics. The incident underscores how even within the halls of Congress, issues of racial sensitivity and political protest can escalate into chaos. For readers interested in global news, this story reflects the persistent challenges of addressing racism in public discourse, both in the United States and worldwide.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026