“If any disturbance does occur, the Sergeant at Arms and Capitol Police will remove the offending visitor(s) from the gallery and subject them to arrest,” Johnson wrote. Lawmakers who engage in disruptive behavior will be formally instructed to stop by the sergeant-at-arms.
Increased Security Amid Planned Protests
Netanyahu’s visit is expected to draw large demonstrations outside the Capitol. According to media reports, several protest groups are planning rallies during the prime minister’s appearance, prompting officials to increase security across the area.
On Tuesday, hundreds of demonstrators gathered inside the Cannon House Office Building, temporarily disrupting normal operations. Capitol Police confirmed that multiple arrests were made, and Speaker Johnson said security would be further reinforced around the House Chamber and surrounding buildings.
Netanyahu’s speech is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Attendance and Political Context
Vice President Kamala Harris will not preside over the joint session. Her office confirmed she will instead attend a previously scheduled event with the Zeta Phi Beta sorority. The joint session will be overseen by Senator Ben Cardin, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Johnson criticized Harris’s absence, calling it inappropriate given the significance of the address. Meanwhile, several Democratic lawmakers are expected to boycott the speech, echoing similar actions taken during Netanyahu’s 2015 address to Congress, when dozens of Democrats declined to attend.
Commentary Adds to Political Debate
The event has also reignited broader political discussion, including commentary from media figures. During a recent episode of HBO’s Real Time, host Bill Maher questioned Vice President Harris’s political standing and her prospects in the upcoming presidential election.
Maher referenced Harris’s 2020 presidential campaign and her public approval ratings, arguing that popularity and electability remain central issues for Democrats heading into November. He also mentioned several other Democratic leaders who are frequently discussed as potential national contenders.
Harris has not responded publicly to the remarks. As of now, she continues to play a prominent role within the administration while facing increased scrutiny amid ongoing election speculation.
Looking Ahead
With heightened security measures in place, congressional leaders say the priority is ensuring the safety of lawmakers, staff, and visitors while allowing the address to proceed without interruption. Capitol officials have urged demonstrators to exercise their rights peacefully and outside restricted areas.
The speech is expected to focus on U.S.–Israel relations, regional security, and ongoing diplomatic challenges in the Middle East.