A series of contradictions and reversals from the White House and National Governors Association (NGA) this week has created widespread confusion and political backlash ahead of the annual White House Governors’ Dinner, scheduled for Feb. 20.
From Feb. 19-21, governors from across the country are expected to be in Washington, D.C., for the NGA’s annual conference, a multi-day gathering where state leaders meet with federal officials, participate in policy discussions, and coordinate on issues such as disaster response, federal funding and interstate priorities. The event traditionally coincides with a meeting with the president and a separate black-tie dinner at the White House.
The weekend has historically provided a unique opportunity for bipartisanship, but controversy began earlier in the week when reports indicated the exclusion of some Democratic governors from White House events tied to the meeting
While administration officials later said invitations were extended to everyone, President Donald Trump stated that two Democratic governors, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, would not be invited to the dinner.
In a social media post, Trump wrote that invitations were sent to all governors “other than two, who I feel are not worthy of being there.”
The decision drew swift responses from state leaders. Moore said he is focused on governing rather than attending political events, while Polis’ office said it is “disappointing” that the federal government is pushing back on states’ work and that the governor will continue collaborating with leaders across party lines regardless of the invitation dispute.
Other Democratic governors have signaled they may skip the dinner in protest. It remains unclear which governors will ultimately attend and whether the event will retain its traditional role as a forum for bipartisan coordination between state and federal leaders.
