Congressional Hearing Ends Abruptly Over Dispute Between Rep. Sarah McBride and Rep. Keith Self

Mar 16

Debate Over Identity and Respect in the House of Representatives

This blog post is based on the article “House hearing abruptly ends after GOP lawmaker misgenders Sarah McBride,” published by USA TODAY on March 13, 2025.

Introduction: A Reflection of Political Dysfunction

At a time when the United States faces major challenges—from economic issues to global conflicts—many Americans expect Congress to focus on serious matters. However, a recent hearing on arms control and national security was shut down early because of a dispute over gender identity. Instead of discussing important policy issues, lawmakers ended up arguing over how to refer to Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE), the first openly transgender member of Congress.

Disclaimer: Amba Law does not take a position on the gender identity debate but views this situation as a reminder of how political disputes often overshadow the real issues affecting Americans, including immigrants. Congress should be focused on addressing national security, economic concerns, and the challenges facing everyday people—not personal disagreements that prevent government from working effectively.

For immigrants in San Diego and across the U.S., this situation serves as an example of how political conflicts in Congress can have real-world consequences. Many immigrants, particularly green card holders and those applying for U.S. citizenship, should be aware that political speech—especially in today’s climate—could carry risks. Amba Law is now actively advising its clients, especially green card holders, to think carefully before engaging in political activism or public demonstrations. The legal landscape is shifting, and we are in uncharted territory. While free speech is protected, the way immigration policies are enforced can change, and immigrants should be cautious about how their participation in protests or activism may be perceived.

The Congressional Dispute: A Breakdown in Professionalism

What Happened?

A House subcommittee hearing on arms control and international security was suddenly adjourned on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, after a dispute between Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) and Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE) over gender identity and respect in Congress.

Rep. Self, who chairs the Europe Subcommittee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, referred to McBride using male pronouns, despite McBride identifying as a woman. Rep. William Keating (D-MA), the committee’s ranking Democrat, objected immediately, insisting that McBride should be addressed according to her gender identity. When Self refused, Keating decided to walk out of the hearing, forcing Self to end the session entirely.

Instead of discussing critical security issues affecting the U.S. and its allies, the hearing turned into a partisan dispute that resulted in no progress on the actual policy matters at hand.

A Pattern of Political Clashes Over Gender Identity

McBride’s Perspective

Since taking office in January 2025, Rep. McBride has faced repeated instances where Republican lawmakers referred to her as male. Her supporters believe this is a deliberate effort to challenge her identity.

McBride responded to the hearing’s abrupt end by stating:

“No matter how I’m treated by some colleagues, nothing diminishes my awe and gratitude at getting to represent Delaware in Congress.”

She emphasized that her main focus is policy, not personal disputes, and that she intends to work on issues that impact everyday Americans, including economic challenges and healthcare.

The Trump Administration’s Official Position

Rep. Self defended his actions, pointing to a January 2025 executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which states that the U.S. government will recognize only two sexes: male and female.

Supporters of Trump’s executive order argue that it reinforces a traditional definition of sex. However, McBride and her supporters believe this is an attempt to erase transgender identities from legal recognition.

This is not the first time McBride has been at the center of Republican-led policies affecting transgender individuals. After her historic election in 2024, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) introduced a rule banning transgender individuals from using restrooms in certain areas of the Capitol that align with their gender identity.

Instead of engaging in that debate, McBride responded:

“I’m not here to fight about bathrooms. I’m here to fight for Delawareans and to bring down costs facing families.”

The Bigger Picture: Congressional Dysfunction and Political Polarization

This dispute highlights deeper political and cultural divisions in the U.S.:

Supporters of McBride argue that refusing to recognize a person's gender identity is an act of disrespect.
Self and his allies argue that freedom of speech protects lawmakers who do not agree with gender identity definitions that differ from biological sex.
Both sides view the debate as part of a larger cultural battle, reflecting divisions in American society.

The bigger problem is that these disputes are increasingly preventing Congress from functioning effectively. Instead of discussing pressing issues—such as economic challenges, healthcare, and national security—lawmakers are arguing over personal identity issues.

What This Means for Immigrants

For immigrants living in San Diego and across the U.S., this situation is an example of how political conflicts can overshadow more urgent policy matters. When lawmakers are caught up in ideological battles, they are not focusing on immigration reform, employment opportunities, or issues that affect immigrant communities directly.

Conclusion: A Distraction from Serious Issues

The dispute between Rep. Sarah McBride and Rep. Keith Self, which led to the abrupt ending of a House hearing, is another example of why Congress has become increasingly dysfunctional. Instead of discussing national security, lawmakers argued over personal identity issues, leading to a total breakdown in legislative work.

Regardless of where one stands on gender identity, this situation shows how ideological conflicts in Washington often prevent lawmakers from addressing real problems—including those that directly affect immigrants, such as pathways to citizenship, work permits, and visa processing delays.

At Amba Law, we believe that Americans—immigrants included—deserve better leadership. Congress should focus on meaningful policy changes that improve the lives of everyday people instead of personal disputes that lead to legislative gridlock.

For immigrants, the key takeaway is clear:

Stay informed about political and legal changes.
Understand your rights, particularly regarding free speech and immigration laws.
Be mindful of political activism, as the enforcement of immigration laws is becoming increasingly unpredictable.

Amba Law remains committed to guiding our clients through these uncertain times, ensuring they have the legal knowledge and representation they need to protect their rights and future in the U.S.

Yasin Amba

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