Trump Snubs Democratic Governors at White House Gathering

President Trump has opted to exclude Democratic governors from significant gatherings at the White House, a departure from the usual bipartisan approach during the annual National Governors Association (NGA) conference in Washington, D.C.

On February 20, a formal meeting intended for governors, the president, and White House officials will proceed without any Democratic representation. A source close to the White House confirmed that this decision was intentional—Trump is not interested in their participation.

Notably, Democratic governors Wes Moore of Maryland and Jared Polis of Colorado were specifically left off the guest list for a White House dinner with their counterparts and spouses. The reasons for their exclusion remain undisclosed, leading many Democratic governors to collectively decide to boycott the event.

Brandon Tatum, CEO of the NGA, announced on Friday that the organization would discontinue its formal meetings with the White House due to the lack of inclusion for Democratic governors. It remains uncertain whether Republican governors will still convene separately at the White House during this time.

"While disagreement is a natural part of our system, so too is collaboration and bridge building," Tatum stated on February 6. "Traditionally, the White House has played a role in fostering these moments during NGA's annual meeting. This year, they will not."

In response, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the president has the authority to extend invitations as he sees fit. "The president has the discretion to invite whomever he wants to the White House, and he welcomes all those who received an invitation to come; if they don't want to, that's their loss," she remarked during a Tuesday briefing.

Leavitt pointed out that Moore had received an invitation last year but did not attend the dinner.

A joint statement released by nearly all Democratic governors on Tuesday confirmed their decision to skip the dinner and any other White House events. "Democratic governors have a long record of working across the aisle to deliver results and we remain committed to this effort. But it's disappointing this administration doesn't seem to share the same goal," they expressed through the Democratic Governors Association.

Interestingly, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson, and Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger were not included in this joint statement, leaving their attendance at the planned dinner uncertain.

During a previous formal governors' meeting on February 21, 2025, Trump and Democratic Gov. Janet Mills of Maine engaged in a heated discussion regarding trans women in sports. Following that meeting, Democratic governors were invited to a bipartisan dinner at the White House.

"My number is right in your wallets and right on your person because I am open to anybody, Republican or Democrat. If we can help, you're going to call me up, and we'll take care of it," Trump stated during his remarks at the 2025 dinner.

The National Governors Association's conference is scheduled for February 19 to February 21 this year in Washington, D.C.