Rep. Van Orden's SOTU Outburst Sparks Controversy

Wisconsin lawmaker faces criticism and calls for apology after interrupting President Biden's address.

Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) shouted 'Lies!' at President Joe Biden during the State of the Union address, interrupting Biden's critique of former President Donald Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) has called for Van Orden to formally apologize to President Biden for the outburst, citing it as part of a pattern of 'unnecessary outbursts' that embarrass Wisconsin and Congress.
Van Orden defended his actions on X, criticizing Biden's address as lacking honesty and transparency, and arguing that it was out of touch with the American people's struggles.
Van Orden's behavior, including previous incidents with Senate pages and during a White House briefing, has raised concerns among some about his temperament and suitability for Congress.
Democrats are targeting Van Orden's seat in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District in the upcoming elections, aiming to flip the seat as part of their efforts to regain control of the House.