WASHINGTON — A Democratic congresswoman interrupted a press conference by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Wednesday, demanding he talk to Democrats to negotiate an end to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
As Johnson prepared to take questions from reporters in front of the House steps, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), shouting from behind a row of reporters, asked Johnson if he needed a phone number for House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.).
“We’re having a press conference, thank you,” Johnson said, possibly not recognizing Houlahan was a member of Congress, since lawmakers don’t usually shout from the reporter area.
“I am part of the American people,” Houlahan said.
“Yes ma’am, and you should respect free speech.”
