Skip to main content

Rep. Chu Statement on Not Attending Inauguration of Donald Trump

January 16, 2017

Washington, D.C. – This weekend, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) announced that she will be joining Rep. John Lewis (GA-05) and other Democratic Members of Congress by not attending the inauguration of Donald Trump. Rep. Chu released the following statement:

"While I do not question the legitimacy of Mr. Trump's election, I do object to his treatment of other Americans, particularly those who disagree with him. In a diverse democracy like ours, patriotic dissent is vital. That is why the values of pluralism, grievance, and criticism are enshrined in the 1st Amendment's protections of religion, speech, and press - all three of which have been targets of the President-elect.

"The personal attacks on John Lewis were just the latest example of behavior unbefitting a president. So after much thought, I, like millions of other Americans, will choose not to attend the inauguration of President Trump. Instead, I will continue to focus on my efforts to ensure a more just and equal country for ourselves and future generations of all Americans - regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or orientation."