Trump Invites Select Democratic Governors to White House, Excludes All but Two
President Donald Trump has invited governors from both major political parties to a White House meeting next week, with exceptions for two Democratic governors. This annual meeting is typically a bipartisan affair, scheduled for February 20, 2024.
Trump’s Invitation Controversy
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that he had sent invitations to all governors, except Maryland’s Wes Moore and Colorado’s Jared Polis. The announcement follows tensions after the National Governors Association (NGA) suggested that Trump would only invite Republican governors.
National Governors Association’s Response
Brandon Tatum, CEO of the NGA, expressed support for an inclusive meeting with all governors, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan dialogue. He stated, “We’re pleased the president will welcome governors from all 55 states and territories to the White House.”
Kevin Stitt, the NGA chair and Oklahoma’s Republican governor, communicated that Trump was inviting all governors to the NGA Business Breakfast, clarifying that the meeting would be a collaborative event. A memo from Stitt, shared with other governors, indicated that Trump’s intention was for bipartisan participation.
- Event Date: February 20, 2024
- Invited Governors: All except Wes Moore and Jared Polis
- NGA Leadership: Brandon Tatum (CEO), Kevin Stitt (Chair)
Democratic Governors’ Perspectives
Governor Wes Moore was reportedly invited to attend before the social media post, but his attendance remains uncertain. Governor Jared Polis’s office has not confirmed whether he received an invitation. A spokesperson for Polis reiterated his commitment to collaboration, despite the political tensions.
Uncertainty Surrounding Dinner Invitations
The status of the annual bipartisan dinner, which accompanies the business meeting, is still unclear. NGA leaders were informed last week that only Republican governors would be invited to the business meeting. This change prompted the NGA to remove the event from their formal agenda.
In response to reports of limited invitations, Trump accused Stitt of misrepresenting his position regarding the dinner and business meeting. Stitt’s spokesperson confirmed he received an invitation on Monday and anticipates that other governors will soon receive theirs.
The unfolding situation highlights the complexity of bipartisanship within state leadership, particularly in an election year.
