Rep. Ilhan Omar Claims State of the Union Guest Was ‘Forcibly Removed’ and Arrested for Standing During Trump’s Address
Rep. Ilhan Omar Claims State of the Union Guest Was ‘Forcibly Removed’ and Arrested for Standing During Trump’s Address
By Congressional Correspondent
WASHINGTON — Rep. Ilhan Omar alleged that one of her invited guests was “forcibly removed” and later arrested after standing during former President **Donald Trump’s State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol.
In a statement released shortly after the speech, Omar said the individual had stood silently in protest during a portion of the president’s remarks before being escorted out of the House chamber by security personnel. She described the removal as “excessive” and said her office is seeking further clarification from authorities.
The incident occurred during the annual joint session of Congress inside the United States Capitol, where security protocols are tightly enforced. Guests are expected to remain seated and avoid demonstrations during the address.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Capitol Police confirmed that an individual was detained for “failure to comply with instructions” but declined to provide additional details pending review. Authorities did not immediately confirm whether formal charges had been filed.
Video clips circulating on social media appeared to show officers approaching a seated section of the gallery before escorting a person from the chamber. It remains unclear whether the arrest was directly related to the act of standing or if additional actions prompted the intervention.
Lawmakers from both parties offered differing reactions. Some defended the enforcement of decorum rules during official proceedings, while others raised concerns about free expression within the confines of congressional security guidelines.
Omar said she plans to review the circumstances surrounding the arrest and determine whether further action is warranted. “Peaceful protest should not be met with force,” she said.
The episode adds to heightened tensions surrounding this year’s address, which unfolded amid sharp partisan divisions and a closely watched political climate.
