The latest buzz surrounding Donald Trump’s inaugural ceremony is the no-show of some high-profile Democratic figures, most notably Michelle Obama and Nancy Pelosi, who are apparently intent on making a grand statement by skipping the event. While Obama’s camp has been tight-lipped, insiders claim her absence signals a firm stance of disapproval, as she continues to harbor the belief that Trump isn’t worthy of the presidency. Is there anyone surprised? The Obamas have never been shy about voicing their opinions, particularly when it comes to their disdain for the 45th president.
Adding to the drama, Pelosi has decided to join her in skipping Trump’s inauguration, making it a two-for-one special on Democratic sulking. It’s worth noting that while she graced Trump’s first inauguration with her presence back in 2017, this time around, she’s opted out. Despite her long history of attending every inauguration since JFK, it seems this particular event just doesn’t appeal to her. For those keeping track, that’s a significant shift for someone who enjoyed cordial relations with previous Republican presidents, like George W. Bush, despite their policy disagreements over the Iraq War. But alas, no cordiality for Trump, who has managed to elicit both eye rolls and fervent rage from Pelosi, particularly during those memorable Oval Office shouting matches.
She won’t be missed ~ ~ AOC among House Democrats not attending Trump’s second inauguration https://t.co/1Q3ZR1VeaJ pic.twitter.com/PTVnSIqCjL
— Mary (@matjendav4) January 16, 2025
Sure, Pelosi is recovering from a hip fracture, but her absence likely isn’t due to health reasons. After all, she managed to parade around the House floor just last week when certifying Trump’s impending victory in 2024. It seems her more recent absence is less about physical limitations and more about political theater. For many in the Democratic camp, the idea of attending a Trump inauguration must be akin to swallowing a sour lemon, especially after unleashing years of vitriol against him.
The absence of these prominent figures further highlights the obvious: many Democrats are still deeply embroiled in their loathing for Trump, which has become something of a partisan badge of honor for them. In fact, some have gone so far as to draw absurd comparisons of Trump to Hitler and other historical tyrants. This isn’t new behavior by any means; recall the mass boycott of Trump’s first inauguration in 2017 over unfounded claims of Russian collusion. Fast forward to 2025, and the uncertainty around how many Democrats will join the boycott has been palpable—though likely many will choose to sit this one out.
But who really cares if they decide to stay home? Inaugurations are about more than just the personal beliefs of a select group of disgruntled elites who can’t get over losing. It’s a celebration of the peaceful transfer—quite aptly put, a return—of power. Trump’s presidency embodies a future based on American greatness, boasting secure borders, a booming economy, fair justice, and leadership that prioritizes the needs of real Americans. The Democrats’ inability to recognize the positive shifts and their penchant for partisan bitterness only serves to drive the point home: the party is more invested in resentment than real progress.
Of course, one must consider that senators and representatives from the Democratic Party might still show up out of a sense of obligation. They’ll likely adopt their signature disapproving demeanor, refusing to clap or even crack a smile. If attending just to scowl is the best they can muster, they might as well stay home. For supporters of Trump, the absence of Obama and Pelosi doesn’t diminish the significance of the day; it’s a chance to celebrate what is right for America rather than focusing on partisan gripes. Their absence simply frees up the space for those truly invested in moving the nation forward.