Democrats Confront Trump during State of the Union; Tensions Highlight Deep Divisions

WASHINGTON: Tuesday’s State of the Union address by U.S. President Donald Trump turned sharply contentious, with Democratic Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib openly heckling the president on immigration and policing, underscoring intensifying partisan divisions in Congress.

Omar repeatedly interrupted Trump’s speech, at times shouting “you are a murderer” and “you have killed Americans” while Trump criticised Democrats on border security and immigration.

Tlaib also joined in the protests, at one point echoing accusations that federal actions had led to deaths of civilians in Minnesota amid immigration enforcement operations. Both lawmakers left the chamber early before the speech concluded.

Republican lawmakers and other officials criticised the outbursts as disrespectful to the institution and inappropriate for the annual address, while many Democrats remained seated or silent to avoid confrontation. Several hundred Democrats outside the Capitol also staged an alternative event to protest the speech.

The clashes occurred as Trump used the record-length speech to defend his immigration policy, foreign policy priorities and economic record ahead of the midterm elections, highlighting ongoing tensions within U.S. national politics.

By agencies