Trump State of the Union interrupted by furious chants of 'HR3' as president speaks about healthcare

Democrats had said beforehand they think Trump's mention of drug prices could backfire

Democratic congresspeople have interrupted Donald Trump during his third State of the Union address, to urge the passage of a bill to lower drug prices.

The bill, HR3, was introduced by the late Elijah Cummings last year, and was passed in the House before being sent over the Senate.

"HR3," the protesters chanted, holding up their hands with three fingers extended.

The moment followed after Mr Trump promised during his address to ensure that pre-existing conditions are covered in American health insurance markets.

The issue of drug prices has become increasingly politically salient in recent years, and has become a major talking point for many in the 2020 democratic field.

Mr Trump, during his speech, called for a bipartisan bill on the issue that would "dramatically" lower drug prices.

Before the State of the Union, Democrats had expressed an interest in the president bringing up that issue, which they told the healthcare news outlet Stat News would highlight how little has been done by the Trump administration when it comes to drug prices.

“Seniors and everyday Americans know that Democrats are the only ones fighting to bring down the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs while Washington Republicans do the bidding of drug manufacturers and their special interest backers,” said Robyn Patterson, the national press secretary for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.