A deep dive into the political theater of our time, where dignity is optional, and bad behavior is the main event
The Death of Decorum in Real Time
Picture this: The grand halls of Congress, an evening meant to showcase unity, patriotism, and the enduring strength of our Republic. Instead, what we got on March 4th was a masterclass in petulance, grandstanding, and outright embarrassing behavior—particularly from those on the left side of the aisle.
While President Trump delivered his address to a joint session of Congress, Democrats treated the evening less like a solemn civic duty and more like a reality show reunion special where half the cast refused to engage. They sat in stony silence, refused to acknowledge honored guests, held ridiculous auction-style signs, and in some cases, outright disrupted the event. Meanwhile, Republicans responded not with anger or outrage, but with exuberant patriotism, and I’m damn proud of them for it.
It was clear to all: the night’s worst behavior came from the Democratic side of the room. And here’s the problem: once again, in the battle for political decorum, we’re all losing. (Although, some are losing harder.)
A Night of Disrespect: How the Democrats Embarrassed Themselves
Al Green’s Outburst—When Security Has to Step In
Let’s start with the biggest spectacle of the evening: Rep. Al Green (D-TX) being physically removed from the chamber. In a moment that will go down in infamy (in his own mind, at least), Green erupted into an incoherent rant, wildly gesticulating and refusing to yield. It wasn’t clear if he was protesting Trump or simply suffering a dramatic episode of righteous indignation, but either way, security had to intervene. When you’re being escorted out of a congressional session like a rowdy sports fan after one too many beers, it’s time for some self-reflection.
A Deafening Silence for American Heroes
When they weren’t sitting stone-faced or bored, they shouted, scoffed, and waved signs to distract and insult the President. But perhaps the most glaring show of disrespect came when Democrats refused to stand or clap for honored guests, proving that partisanship now outweighs decency. Here are the key moments:
DJ Daniel: A young boy recognized for his resilience in overcoming brain cancer. President Trump called him an inspiration, yet many Democrats refused to stand, apparently unwilling to acknowledge a child simply because of who bestowed the honor.
Widow of Slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller: When President Trump honored the sacrifice of Officer Diller and acknowledged his grieving widow, many Democrats remained seated, displaying a stunning lack of empathy and respect. Officer Diller was murdered in the line of duty, leaving behind a young family that deserved bipartisan recognition and support.
Jason Hartley, A Journey to West Point: Hartley’s inspiring journey from a childhood dream to becoming a West Point cadet embodies dedication, perseverance, and patriotism. His story should have been an undeniable moment of national pride, yet Democrats remained silent, unwilling to celebrate the achievements of this young man because of political posturing.
The Family of Corey D. Comperatore: President Trump honored the grieving family, highlighting their unimaginable loss and the importance of unity in times of tragedy. Yet again, Democrats refused to acknowledge the moment, choosing silence over basic human decency.
Young Girls Honored by First Lady Melania Trump: The First Lady recognized these young girls for their courage and achievements, yet Democrats refused to applaud or acknowledge them, further proving their commitment to political division over common courtesy.
Let’s Not Forget Jasmine Crockett’s Antics—Theatrics Over Substance
Not to be outdone, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) continues her trend of political theater over substance. Whether it’s eye-rolling, dramatic sighs, or making snarky comments under her breath in session, Crockett seems more suited for a reality TV show than a congressional seat. Her outbursts have become as much a signature move as her profanity laced responses to reporters, and while they may win viral moments on social media, they do nothing for the American people.
John Fetterman’s Wardrobe Malfunction (Again)
Then there’s the never-ending saga of Sen. John Fetterman’s refusal to dress like an actual senator. While the rest of the chamber showed up in professional attire befitting the occasion, Fetterman continually arrives looking like he was headed to a college dorm’s laundry room. At some point, dressing like an overgrown teenager isn’t “relatable”—it’s just lazy. The office of a U.S. Senator should demand a basic level of respect, and that includes not looking like you just rolled out of bed.
Where Republicans Also Miss the Mark
Lest this turn into a completely one-sided roast, let’s acknowledge that some on the right also contributed to the decay of political discourse. Dan Crenshaw’s recent comments about Tucker Carlson were uncalled for and did nothing to elevate the conversation. In fact, threatening to kill someone is something that should merit more than a stern warning. Republicans should be holding themselves to a higher standard, even when dealing with disagreements within their own ranks.
What Can We Do About It?
We, as the American people, don’t have to sit back and accept this as the new norm. Here’s how we can demand better:
1. Vote for Leaders Who Respect the Office
No matter your political affiliation, electing representatives who carry themselves with dignity should be a top priority. If someone treats Congress like an open mic night, maybe they shouldn’t be there.
2. Stop Rewarding Outrage Culture
The more we share, like, and engage with political antics, the more we incentivize them. If you want less theatrics and more governance, start paying attention to policy, not just performance.
3. Hold Politicians Accountable
Call out bad behavior—on both sides. Don’t let your favorite party get away with nonsense just because you agree with their policies.
4. Demand a Return to Basic Respect
Standing for a child being honored should not be a partisan issue. Showing up in professional attire should not be a controversial expectation. These are the bare minimum standards we should expect.
Conclusion: We Deserve Better
What happened on March 4th was just another chapter in the ongoing saga of America’s political decline. If we want to restore even a semblance of dignity to public service, it starts with us. It’s time to demand that our representatives act like the leaders they were elected to be—because right now, we’re looking less like a superpower and more like a poorly written political satire. And let’s be honest—we already have enough reality TV. We don’t need Congress competing for airtime.
Decorum isn’t dead yet, but it’s on life support. Time to revive it.
