Doesn’t it just bug the hell out of you when the Democrats stand and give George Bush ovations during the State of the Union message? Bush mentions something benign and flag-wavy, the Republicans jump to their feet screaming, and the cameras pan the hall as the Democrats gradually get to their feet and applaud along.
Email your Rep and tell them to stay seated. The symbolism can be strong, especially over seas, where our image as a democracy has been savaged.
Exceptions for Reps: Stand when the President of the US enters the hall. Don’t applaud, don’t boo, just bow your head in silent recognition of the "Worst President Ever." And stand when he leaves; you are permitted to turn your back so you don’t have to see the next kiss....more...
Also: Stand when Bush drags out a poor person, or a genuine hero, or a wounded vet, or a beard for tears that we all can sympathize with; polite applause will be necessary, but sit down quickly. The wounded vet will understand (read this past week’s Doonsbury for background.)
Bush doesn’t deserve this respect. He lied to us, made our country unsafe, ignored our laws, sent our troops off to die for a lie. Et fucking cetera.
Don’t stand up. Keep your meat in the seat. Don’t go with the beat. This entire administration has shown its scorn for this Congress. Stand up by staying seated.