Pritzker Joins Democratic Governors Boycotting White House Dinner After Snub Chaos
In a significant political move, a coalition of Democratic governors, led by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, announced a boycott of the White House dinner during the National Governors Association’s winter gathering. This boycott follows the non-invitation of key Democratic figures, Jared Polis from Colorado and Wes Moore from Maryland, to the traditionally bipartisan event.
Pritzker’s Stand Against the White House Dinner
Governor Pritzker expressed strong disapproval of President Trump, stating, “No way will I attend the White House dinner with this President.” He voiced his support for Governors Moore and Polis, urging Republican governors to join the boycott.
Democratic Coalition Takes Action
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, its vice chair, are spearheading this boycott. Other committed governors include:
- Gavin Newsom (California)
- Josh Shapiro (Pennsylvania)
- Tim Walz (Minnesota)
A collective of 18 governors criticized President Trump for fostering “chaos and division” by snubbing Democratic leaders. This decision diverges from the previous norm of inviting both parties to the White House events.
Background on the Non-Invitations
The refusal to invite these Democratic governors comes after a highly publicized altercation between President Trump and Maine Governor Janet Mills regarding transgender sports participation rights. This incident, which occurred during a bipartisan “Governors Working Session,” created substantial tension between the parties.
White House Response
A White House spokesperson defended the president’s discretion in invitations, stating, “It’s the people’s house. It’s also the president’s home.” The spokesperson reflected on the previous year’s dinner, noting that Governor Moore had received an invitation but ultimately did not attend.
Moore, the only Black governor in the United States, suggested his exclusion was racially motivated, indicating a desire for greater representation at the gathering.
Reactions from Political Leaders
Brandon Tatum, CEO of the National Governors Association (NGA), expressed disappointment over the administration’s decision. Meanwhile, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, the chairman of the NGA, detailed the association’s shift away from facilitating the upcoming event, emphasizing its role in representing all governors across the United States and territories.
This standoff highlights the intensifying divisions in American politics, with the Democratic governors striving to unify against actions perceived as exclusionary and destructive to bipartisanship.
