Congressional Democrats, still sour over Hillary Clinton’s loss to President Donald J. Trump, remained mostly seated and still throughout the president’s first address to Congress. Guy offered his analysis on this, and the consensus is that this was his best speech yet. More importantly, it showed that Trump had become presidential. The tone was softer, though it did not shy away from the promises he made on the campaign trail.
Longest applause of the night, by far, and rightly so. God bless her family. #RIP
— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) March 1, 2017
Yet, as Trump discussed support for law and order, law enforcement, and other subjects that usually garner bipartisan golf claps, Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) were seen debating with whether to stand or remain seated during some of Trump’s biggest applause lines. Independent Journal Review’s Benny Johnson tweeted that the two were whispering, “Should we stand?”
IMPORTANT: Wassermann Schultz & Ellison whisper to each other "Should we stand?" before most big Trump applause lines. They stand 4 some
— Benny (@bennyjohnson) March 1, 2017
The most powerful moment came when President Trump introduced the widow of Navy SEAL Ryan Owens, who was killed in action in Yemen. Carryn Owens, breaking down in tears, received the longest ovation of the night—and rightfully so. But Schultz and Ellison remained seated, like cold stones.
Sobbing widow of slain Navy Seal receives 2 minute standing ovation.
— Benny (@bennyjohnson) March 1, 2017
Debbie Wasserman Schultz & Keith Ellison stay firmly seated, no claps
Apparently, clapping for those who serve in America’s elite Special Forces and who have given everything in defense of their country is just too right wing to warrant a round of applause. Are you kidding me? You know that stereotype about the Democratic Party hating and disparaging our troops. Well, it was explicitly shown last night. If Hillary Clinton honored a fallen Navy SEAL, you bet Democrats would be clapping in adoration, but because Trump is president—it’s viewed as an act from a Sith lord.
Keep it classy, Democrats.
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