President Biden and Republican lawmakers had a lively exchange on whether to raise the debt ceiling during their State of the Union address on Tuesday.
“I understand that some of my Republican friends want to hold the economy hostage,” Biden said of Republican lawmakers’ threats to insist on spending cuts before agreeing to raise the debt ceiling. . Everyone at home should know what those plans are. ”
As Mr. Biden continued his speech, a handful of Republicans began to voice their displeasure, shouting at and obstructing the president.
While many Republicans booed him, Biden said, “Instead of letting the wealthy pay the fares, some Republicans want Medicare and Social Security to end.
“For anyone who doubts it,” Biden said, as a chorus of Republican boos followed, “contact my office. I’ll give you a copy of the proposal.”
When Republicans, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, continued to taunt the president, he joked, “All right, I enjoy the conversation.”
“The program could be scrapped if Congress doesn’t keep it as it is, says Republicans. I’m not saying that’s your majority. “It’s been suggested by individuals. I haven’t named them respectfully, but it’s been suggested by some of you.”
At one point, Green was heard calling Biden a liar.
“The idea is that we’re not going to be swayed by threats of default if we don’t act,” Mr. Biden said, drawing applause from his Democratic colleagues.
After Republicans stifled vocal dissent, Biden concluded: they should not be touched. have understood. “
It gave the Democratic Party something to cheer up again.
It is not uncommon for lawmakers to shout during a presidential address in Congress, but it is not entirely unheard of. In 2009, RSC Rep. Joe Wilson exclaimed, “You’re lying!” During President Barack Obama’s health care speech.
Wilson’s outburst was heavily criticized by Republican leaders at the time, and he was quick to apologize.