Did America Loose Its Sense of Respect?
Israel Heritage Foundation’s Executive Director Rabbi David Katz.
3/5/2025, 12:25:35 PM
Last night, Americans witnessed a very disappointing display of disrespect at the 2025 Joint Session speech by President Trump. The speech was marred by a disturbing incident by Congressman Al Green.
Green is a 77-year-old seasoned politician in Texas. His actions were not only unbecoming but also raised concerns about the state of respect in American politics.
The incident began when Green stood up and shouted at President Trump, disrupting the president’s address. Despite his ejection from the chamber, Green’s actions sparked a larger debate about the erosion of civility and respect in American discourse.
As a nation built on the principles of free speech and diverse values, every individual has the right to express their opinions and be heard. However, respect is a fundamental aspect of our democracy, and Green’s behavior fell short of this standard.
Green’s actions not only reflected poorly on himself but also raised questions about what the younger generation can learn from his behavior. As someone who has spent decades in politics, he should have known better. Spreading hate and division only serves to further polarize our nation.
The incident has sparked intense debate, with some arguing that Green’s actions were a justified response to President Trump’s policies. Others, however, have condemned Green’s behavior as unprofessional and divisive.
Ultimately, the incident raises important questions about the state of respect in American politics. As we move forward, it’s essential that our leaders model the behavior we expect from our citizens – respect, civility, and a commitment to constructive dialogue.
Despite the notable absence of applause for President Trump’s achievements by Democrats, at least Green’s Democratic colleagues didn’t outwardly show solidarity or support for his actions when he was escorted out of the chamber.
This incident has left me wondering: is this a sign that we’re losing our sense of respect for one another or is there still hope for constructive dialogue and cooperation? The lack of unity and respect displayed by the Democrats sparks concerns about the state of American politics and the ability of our leaders to work together for the greater good.