Representative Ilhan Omar, Democrat of Minnesota, shouts as U.S. President Donald J. Trump delivers the first State of the Union address of his second term to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Kenny Holston/Pool via REUTERS
(Washington, DC) – A guest invited by Rep. Ilhan Omar was removed from the House gallery and arrested by U.S. Capitol Police during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address after authorities say she repeatedly refused to sit down.
According to Capitol Police, the woman stood in the gallery during portions of the president’s speech and ignored multiple warnings from officers to take her seat. Law enforcement officials said her refusal to comply was considered a disruption of Congress, which is prohibited under federal law.
Officers escorted her out of the chamber and placed her under arrest on charges related to unlawful conduct and disruption.
Rep. Omar criticized the arrest, calling the response excessive and describing her guest’s actions as a peaceful expression. The guest reportedly did not shout or hold signs, but remained standing during parts of the address.
The incident added to the already tense atmosphere inside the Capitol as lawmakers reacted sharply to several moments in President Trump’s speech.
Capitol Police have not released additional details about potential court proceedings.
