A Republican town hall in Nebraska turned confrontational Tuesday night as Rep. Mike Flood faced repeated boos, interruptions and sharp questions from attendees over his support for President Donald Trump’s policies, including the One Big Beautiful Bill.
The event, held in Bellevue while Congress was in recess, covered a wide range of issues, from Medicaid and food assistance to immigration, election security, Israel and foreign policy.
Throughout the evening, many audience members voiced frustration as Flood defended the administration’s agenda.
Trump’s Signature Legislation Draws Loudest Backlash
The strongest reaction came when Flood discussed the One Big Beautiful Bill, Trump’s signature domestic legislation.
As the congressman began explaining parts of the law, audience members repeatedly interrupted him with boos before he could finish several responses.
Questions from attendees focused on how the legislation could affect Medicaid recipients and people relying on the
Flood argued that tightening eligibility rules would help preserve benefits for those who need them most while encouraging able-bodied adults to enter the workforce.
“I want people that are food insecure to get resources,” Flood told the audience. “I also want people that are able-bodied and can work to work. If you don’t work, you shouldn’t expect free healthcare.”
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His comments were met with another wave of boos, while one audience member shouted, “Tax the rich.”
Later in the evening, another constituent urged Flood to recognize the mood in the room.
“I think you need to read the room. There’s not a lot of love for the Big Beautiful Bill in this room,” the attendee said.
Several residents questioned how the new law would affect healthcare access and food assistance.
Flood maintained that adding work requirements to Medicaid and SNAP would reduce unnecessary government spending while protecting vulnerable Americans.
His explanation, however, failed to calm many in attendance, with audience members repeatedly voicing their opposition.
Election Security Debate Becomes Heated
Flood also defended the proposed SAVE America Act and voter identification requirements, another priority backed by Trump.
He questioned why requiring proof of identity when voting had become controversial.
“What I can’t stand is what is so objectionable about having to show a driver’s license, a passport, or a birth certificate at your place where you vote,” Flood said.
The audience again responded with loud boos.
One attendee challenged him to explain what evidence supported claims of election fraud.
Flood replied that he has never disputed the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.
“I have never argued that there was an inaccurate result, and I always recognized Joe Biden was our president,” he said.
Immigration and Foreign Policy Split the Crowd
Immigration also produced emotional exchanges. While defending the administration’s deportation efforts, Flood argued that violent crime had declined in several cities.
“Violent crime is down,” he said while pointing to cities including Washington and New York.
An audience member was interrupted by a shout of “Liar!” as others booed.
The congressman also defended U.S. support for Israel, describing the country as America’s closest ally in the Middle East.
“I want to be very clear: We have no greater ally in the Middle East than Israel,” Flood said.
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His remarks prompted another loud round of boos from the audience.
Flood referred to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and argued that any country would respond forcefully after such an assault.
He later reiterated his position by telling attendees, “I support Israel.”
During the discussion on foreign affairs, Flood also backed continued pressure on Iran.
Some Responses Earned Applause
Although much of the evening was contentious, Flood received applause at several points.
Audience members responded positively when he described Russian President Vladimir Putin as “a thug” and expressed continued support for Ukraine.
He also received a warmer reception while discussing bipartisan housing legislation that recently passed Congress.
Flood said he expected the measure to become law soon regardless of whether Trump formally signed it.
The congressman also acknowledged that the 14th Amendment provides birthright citizenship, a response that drew approval from some attendees because it differed from positions often associated with the administration.
