Poll respondents weigh in on Rep. Huffman skipping inauguration

A slight majority of respondents in an online Argus-Courier poll said that they do not agree with Rep. Jared Huffman’s decision to skip the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. Huffman announced last week that he was boycotting the swearing-in ceremony to instead host service and engagement days in the North Coast district. Out of 125 respondents, about 55 percent said that he should have attended the Washington, D.C. ceremony.

Poll results reflect sentiments of persons participating in the weekly online poll, and are not intended as a statistically valid representation of public sentiment.

Here are some comments:

“His act of civil disobedience serves as a model to me to do what we can, whenever we can to heal an increasingly fragile democracy. Thank you Representative Huffman.”

“Change can only happen if you stay engaged. Not showing up is a sign of disrespect, and the favor you show will be returned many times. This is why Congress has an outstanding approval rating.”

“By doing this he demonstrates that he is part of the problem. I am completely disgusted with both parties. To represent everyone, this us-versus-them mentality must stop. Act like an adult not a child who’s toy was taken away.”

“Congressman Huffman’s decision to skip the inauguration gives me hope for the next four years. In a week when we celebrate the accomplishments of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., it’s especially important to take strong stands in favor of justice.”

“Donald Trump will be the president for all. Mr. Huffman is being rude.”

“He is sent to Washington to participate in the democracy as our representative. He shouldn’t choose to opt out because he does not support the new president-elect.”

“I’m sure Trump and party will remember his absence on any legislation he introduces. No sense in starting a battle.” yet. There will be plenty of worthwhile battles soon enough. ”

“I commend him for having the integrity to skip the inauguration. We cannot ‘normalize’ this in-coming administration. It is time to hit the streets and make our voice heard.”