Rep. Jasmine Crockett Explains Decision to Skip Trump Inauguration

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) announced that she would not attend former President Donald Trump's inauguration, citing deep concerns over his presidency and its implications for civil rights and justice.

"I don't think that this is a time for celebration," Crockett said in a statement to Axios. "I think that if we had a traditional Republican where there were disagreements, then, yeah, I would most likely be there. I would feel more obligated to be there, especially as a sitting member of Congress."

Crockett pointed to the historical significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which coincided with the inauguration date, as another reason for her decision.

"Considering this is also Martin Luther King Day, it just seems like the worst way to spend the day knowing that I would be celebrating someone who really is going to work very hard to tear down the legacy in which literally he lived and died for," she said.

The decision highlights the continued polarization within Congress, as many lawmakers have grappled with how to approach Trump's controversial tenure. Crockett’s statement reflects broader concerns among Democrats about the direction of the country under Trump's leadership.

The event, which marked the beginning of Trump’s presidency, faced several notable boycotts from Democratic lawmakers, underscoring the deep political and ideological divides in Washington.