Should the Senators and Reps in the race attend the State of the Union?

[beaconess]

[jmaier]

1. Nope

I'd like to see all of the Dems in congress stay home to symbolize that Bush isn't addressing the state of "the union" but only the state of the Republican portions of the union.

[beaconess]

6. But won't the Democratic candidates leave themselves open to

attacks if they fail to attend this event, which is, after all, part of their job?

[Renew Deal]

2. YES!!!

It get's their faces out there.

[beaconess]

3. But is that a good thing?

since they would be shown reacting to Bush's speech, which often involves jumping up to applaud every 30 seconds or so or, in failing to do so, appearing disrespectful.

[drfemoe]

7. Is that any worse

than voting to pass every piece of crapola the Rs have put on the table for the past three years? (with very few exceptions)

[sandnsea]

4. Of course

The far left is what, 15% of the population. The rest of the country will expect every Senator and Congressman to show up. It's a democracy. A future President has to represent ALL of the people. Just because Bush has forgotten that doesn't mean I'd want a Democratic President to forget it.

[i_am_not_john_galt]

5. Yes

It respects the office of the presidency and to skip just makes one look petty. Better to attend and sit on your hands as necessary, then show up on the news shows and state your piece.

[oasis]

8. Kerry sitting with Kennedy. Powerful message.

[BobbyJay]

9. Of course

If they didn't, it would get made into some moronic right-wing talking point.