- Republican Rep. Lance Gooden grabbed a protest sign from Democrat Rep. Melanie Stansbury during President Trump’s speech, removing it from view.
- Stansbury’s silent protest featured a sign reading “This is NOT Normal,” visible as Trump entered the chamber.
- The incident highlighted the tense and divided atmosphere in Congress during Trump’s address.
Republican Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) seized a protest sign from Democrat Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) during President Donald Trump’s speech to Congress on Tuesday evening. Gooden’s swift action occurred as Trump entered the joint session for his first major address of his second presidential term.
🚨BADASS: Rep. Lance Gooden ripped a “THIS IS NOT NORMAL” sign out of a Democrat’s hand as President Trump walked by.
pic.twitter.com/LFWmAqRnB5— Trent Leisy (@realTrentLeisy) March 5, 2025
Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10
Don't miss out on the news
Get the latest, most crucial news stories on the web – sent straight to your inbox for FREE as soon as they hit! Sign up for Email News Alerts in just 30 seconds!
Despite the event’s significance, several Democrats opted to boycott the speech, leaving noticeable gaps on their side of the chamber. Those in attendance, however, made their dissatisfaction visible. Many Democratic lawmakers wore black or pink clothing, accessorized with blue-and-yellow scarves or pins, symbolizing their support for Ukraine.
As Trump entered the chamber, greeting members of Congress while receiving applause from his GOP colleagues, Stansbury held up a handwritten sign that read, “This is NOT Normal.” Standing in bright pink attire, she positioned herself to ensure the sign was visible to television cameras, though she remained silent.
When Trump approached, Gooden leaned across the aisle, quickly snatching the sign from Stansbury’s hands. Without hesitation, he tossed it aside, removing the protest from view. His action drew attention during an already tense evening.
The protest by Stansbury marked one of several acts of defiance from Democrats, but Gooden’s response underscored the contentious atmosphere. As Trump continued his speech uninterrupted, the moment highlighted the growing divisions on Capitol Hill.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT
What do you think about this incident? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10
Join the Discussion
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.
The demmies are worse than spoiled children living out their temper tantrums daily.