Democrat centrists, progressives clash after Trump’s address to Congress

Democrats displayed their internal party divisions in the aftermath of President Donald Trump’s first address to Congress. The party, which is facing pressure from grassroots organizations to take a more combative approach to the Trump administration’s actions, is grappling with clashes between establishment figures and progressives.

During Trump’s more than 90-minute speech, progressives heckled the president, while moderate Democrats expressed frustration with the disruptions. Some Democrats warned against protesting Trump, urging their colleagues to show decorum and let the president “stew in his own juice.” However, many Democrats protested nonetheless, remaining seated during certain moments and holding up signs criticizing Trump’s policies.

Rep. Jared Golden, a centrist Democrat from Maine, condemned the disruptions, stating that he did not condone such behavior. He believed that the disruptions did not resonate with the average American and painted a negative picture of the party. Similarly, Rep. Tom Suozzi of New York criticized the disruptions, stating that he believed in showing deference to the president.

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania condemned the disruptions as well, calling them a “sad cavalcade of self-owns and unhinged petulance.” He believed that the disruptions only made Trump appear more presidential and restrained. Some Democrats also criticized their party’s messaging, particularly in relation to a 13-year-old cancer survivor who was honored during the speech.

Progressives within the party expressed frustration over a lack of direction from party leadership, which forced them to develop their own approach to addressing Trump’s address. Some progressives argued that the disruptions were a result of the party’s failure to provide clear guidance and strategy.

Rep. Dan Newhouse, a Republican from Washington, plans to bring a resolution to censure Rep. Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, for his disruptions during Trump’s speech. Some Democrats, including Golden and Rep. Don Davis of North Carolina, have not ruled out supporting the resolution.

Overall, the internal divisions within the Democratic Party were on full display following Trump’s address to Congress. The clashes between establishment figures and progressives, as well as differing opinions on how to respond to the Trump administration, highlight the challenges the party faces in presenting a united front.