A group of Democratic lawmakers are choosing not to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday, opting instead for alternative forms of protest or staying away entirely. Their decisions come amid internal discussions within the party on how best to register dissent without disrupting the proceedings.
Several Democrats will skip the official address and instead appear at the “People’s State of the Union,” a rally-style event near the Lincoln Memorial. The gathering is being organised by MeidasTouch and MoveOn Civic Action and is expected to focus on criticism of Trump’s first year back in office.
Key Democrats skipping the address
Senator Ed Markey (MA)
Senator Jeff Merkley (OR)
Senator Chris Murphy (CT)
Senator Tina Smith (MN)
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Senator Chris Van Hollen (MD)
Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ)
Representative Becca Balint (VT)
Some others include Greg Casar of Texas, Veronica Escobar of Texas, Pramila Jayapal of Washington, John Larson of Connecticut, Sydney Kamlager-Dove of California, Delia Ramirez of Illinois, Sara Jacobs of California, Emily Randall of Washington, Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey
Skipping without joining the counter event
A smaller group of Democrats has announced they will not attend the State of the Union and will also skip the alternative rally.
Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona
Representative Jared Golden of Maine
Both have indicated they plan to remain at home rather than participate in either event.
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As per a report by Fox News, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries outlined two options for Democratic members: attend the address in silent defiance or not attend as a form of protest. Jeffries has confirmed he will be present at the address alongside Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The decisions highlight differing approaches within the Democratic Party on how to respond to the president’s annual address, particularly after last year’s disruptions drew national attention.
