House Dem Gets Earful from Angry Constituents: 'Show Some Backbone'

Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Md., had quite the town hall near the nation's capital on Tuesday, as constituents unleashed their frustrations in a fiery display that was more shouting match than civil discussion.

One particularly upset attendee from Prince George's County demanded the congressman "fight" harder and channel the "strategic brilliance" of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell in pushing back against the Republican budget victory earlier this March. The man didn't mince words: "We want you to show fight, and you are not fighting." Ouch.

Ivey attempted to agree and address the criticism, saying, "Yeah I agree. I think your point about the vote on the [budget] is right," but was immediately interrupted by another constituent's loud objections.

The tension boiled over when a woman started screaming, accusing Ivey of being far too calm for her liking. "You're too calm. You are too calm," she shouted repeatedly, demanding to know where his "fight" was.

While trying to maintain some semblance of order, Ivey insisted that everyone would get a turn to speak. "You can stay here and yell as long as you want," he told her. The woman’s dramatic exit, punctuated by a loud "Nooooooooooo!", was a scene that could rival any political drama.

The event underscored deep frustrations within the Democratic Party, particularly as Republicans hold control over the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives. Ivey also took aim at Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer during the town hall, expressing disappointment over Schumer’s decision to vote with Republicans on the budget bill. "You know you’re on bad ground when you get a personal tweet from Donald Trump thanking you for your vote," Ivey remarked dryly to the crowd.

He continued, suggesting it might be time for Senate Democrats to consider new leadership. While he praised Hakeem Jeffries for "meeting the moment," Ivey gave Schumer a less glowing review, calling his decision a misstep that left Democrats on shaky terrain.

Despite the chaos, Ivey managed to hold his ground, navigating the heated emotions with a mix of calm and measured responses. Whether his constituents felt reassured is another question entirely.