While several Democrat politicians, such as Congressman John Lewis, have firmly said that they will not be attending Trump’s inauguration in protest, many more say they’ll miss the ceremony for “other reasons.” Sure, it might be freezing in Washington, and parking is gonna be a nightmare (or not), but some of these flimsy excuses seem more like thinly veiled middle-fingers to Trump’s big day.
1.Peter DeFazio
The Senator from Oregon says he always avoids “pomp and circumstance events in Washington,” but we’re guessing it’s more than just the ticker tape keeping him away this year.
2. Kurt Schrader
It’s a cool 48 degrees in Washington today, and this Oregon congressman is not prepared to brave the cold for Trump, as he’s “never been impressed with him.” Schrader says Trump “hasn’t proved himself to me at all yet, so I respectfully decline to freeze my ass out there in the cold for this particular ceremony.” We support your decision to stay warm today, Schrader!
3. Dianne Feinstein
We’re all suffering from heart problems on this darkest of days, and this California Senator is not taking any chances, as she says just had a pacemaker installed. Hearts are breaking all over the world today, it’s a wise decision to keep yours well away from the ceremony!
4. Frederica Wilson
Congresswoman Frederica Wilson had an airtight excuse not to trek to Washington today, as her goddaughter is getting married on Saturday. Okay, so, this may have been booked well in advance of election day, but if not, it’s pretty perfect timing. We’re glad at least someone has something to celebrate today!
5. Grace Napolitano
California Congresswoman Napolitano has been nicely vague about her attendance at the inauguration, telling the LA Times that she “decided earlier in the week not to go” and would be meeting with her constituents instead. If by earlier in the week you mean November 9th, Napolitano, we totally believe you.
6. Maxine Waters
When asked whether or not she’s going, California Rep. Waters replied, “It’s not interesting, it’s just not interesting.” We agree, Maxine, watching yet another rich white straight cis dude being granted way more power than he deserves sounds like the most boring, overdone thing on the planet.
7. John Conyers
The Rep from Michigan says it’s “iffy” whether or not he’d go. We feel you, Conyers. Just like the fate of humanity under Trump: Iffy AF.
8. Earl Blumenauer
This Democratic Rep from Oregon hit the nail on the head when asked if he would go, saying the inauguration “Is not a productive use of my time.” Exactly. We can think of infinity more productive things to do today.
9. Jim Clyburn
Finally, House Democratic Assistant Leader Jim Clyburn recognizes the importance of self-care and looking after your health right before the apocalypse. For him, it all depends on the weather: “Anything that affects my sinuses, I won’t go.”
Top Photo: Twitter/@robferdman
More From BUST
Root Canal Surgery, And 8 More Things People Would Rather Do Than Watch The Inauguration
There Was A Queer Dance Party With A Message For Daddy Pence
