New Jersey Congressman Will Boycott Trump Inauguration

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Sometimes the strongest statement that a person can make is simply not showing up.

On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-10) announced that he won’t be attending President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony on Friday, calling him “unfit to hold” the position.

“I have the deepest respect for the office of the presidency, something that cannot be said for President-elect Trump,” Payne Jr. wrote. “His actions and statements have consistently been below the dignity of the office, and there’s no indication that will change. Donald Trump will be our president, and I will work with him if my values permit, and if doing so is in the best interest of my constituents and the nation. But I will not celebrate his swearing-in to an office that he has proven unfit to hold.”

• See related article: Donald Trump Most Unpopular Incoming President In Decades, Polls Show

A Newark native, husband and father of three, Payne Jr. represents New Jersey's 10th congressional district, including portions of Essex, Hudson and Union counties, as well as the cities of Newark and Orange.

U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12) has also stated that she will not be attending the inauguration, and instead attend an interfaith prayer vigil at a Trenton church.

• See related article: New Jersey’s Urban, Black Leaders Prep For Trump Presidency

Payne Jr.’s boycott announcement spurred strong reactions in favor and against his decision.

• “Thank you so much, sir, for representing the people of your district--myself included--in standing against the American tragedy of this inauguration.”
• “Wouldn't expect anything different from you. Your Trump derangement disorder is clouding your judgement. Be thankful that your gerrymandered district contains enough progs to keep you elected term after term.”
• “Thank you, Congressman Payne! You are on the right side of history.”
• “I will remember your name and will not be voting for you when your term expires. You are a solid reason for term limits. Do what is right and resign if you feel the need to disrespect this man like this. Sad day for America.”

Patch File Photo: Donald Payne Jr.

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