Moderate Democrats Explain Their Opposition to Censure of Al Green

Moderate Democrats Explain Their Opposition to Censure of Al Green

Two moderate Democrats have publicly shared their reasons for opposing the censure of Representative Al Green from Texas. They emphasized that Congress should prioritize more pressing issues rather than focus on what they consider unnecessary reprimands.

Amid a turbulent political climate, ten Democratic lawmakers chose to break from their party and vote on a House resolution led by Republicans. This resolution aimed to formally admonish Green for his vocal protest during President Donald Trump’s address to Congress on Tuesday night.

The ten dissenting Democrats predominantly represent moderate districts, while some, like Representative Jared Moskowitz from Florida, have established reputations for collaborating with Republicans.

Fox News Digital reached out to nine additional Democrats from moderate constituencies who joined the 198 other legislators in opposing the censure of Green.

Among those contacted, only two representatives — Jared Golden from Maine and Josh Riley from New York — provided responses that shed light on their choices.

Golden’s Perspective on Free Speech

In a statement, Golden explained the dilemma lawmakers face when considering censure motions. He noted, “In today’s environment, censure tends only to give a greater platform to the censured legislator. Therefore, I tend to lean in favor of free speech unless a clear red line is crossed.”

Golden also referenced his support for previous censure efforts against Representative Rashida Tlaib from Michigan, mentioning her controversial comments regarding Israel. Despite this, he criticized Green for interrupting Trump’s speech.

Golden further explained, “I voted against censuring Rep. Green because I don’t believe he crossed that line. I also think it is not in the House’s interest to draw even greater attention to his misguided behavior.”

Riley’s Focus on Legislative Priorities

Josh Riley, who represents a district in central New York, took a more generalized stance. Without directly commenting on Green, he expressed frustration with the political positioning prevalent in Washington, stating, “Upstate New Yorkers sent me to Congress to lower costs, create jobs, and ensure they get a fair shot. I wish we would have focused on those priorities instead of the ongoing drama in Washington.”

Riley won his seat in November by defeating former Representative Marc Molinaro. His sentiment reflects a desire among some lawmakers to shift conversations away from theatrics and back towards substantive policy issues.

The Events Leading to Censure

The vote to censure Green concluded with a tally of 224 to 198, occurring after he repeatedly disrupted the beginning of Trump’s primetime speech. Green shouted, “You have no mandate!” at the president while waving his cane, which prompted House Speaker Mike Johnson to issue a warning. After continued disruptions, Green was ultimately removed from the chamber.

Despite the censure, Green maintained a defiant stance. He later posted on social media, stating, “Today, the House GOP censured me for speaking out for the American people against [Trump’s] plan to cut Medicaid. I accept the consequences of my actions, but I refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice.” This defiance signals that the issue may not simply end with the censure.

The Censure Vote Breakdown

The ten Democrats who supported the censure included Representatives Ami Bera from California, Ed Case from Hawaii, Jim Costa from California, Laura Gillen from New York, Jim Himes from Connecticut, Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania, Marcy Kaptur from Ohio, Jared Moskowitz from Florida, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez from Washington, and Tom Suozzi from New York.

Conversely, Green opted to vote