It is time for 24 hour peaceful (but loud) protests at the U.S. Capital Building. For TWO reasons.
The main reason is obvious. We the people want, NEED, our government back - literally. Back on the job AND paid.
But a growing protest in and around the Halls of Congress now also serves another purpose. It proves that Speaker Pelosi is correct. Our Constitution guarantees us to right to assemble and present our grievances. And each day that this shutdown continues our reason to do just that increases ten fold. But even the most peaceful and well intentioned protests present significant challenges regarding security and crowd control.
Now is NOT the time for Trump to demand that virtually every important member of our national government gather together under one roof in a single chamber at the capital to witness him deliver a speech that could just as easily be delivered during another week when our government, and the security forces that protect it, are fully functional.
Over the coming days Congress needs to hear from the People far more than they need to hear the same fear laced regurgitated litany of lies about immigration and refugees that Trump spews forth anytime he can find a live microphone. The President has other means to get his message to Congress. Already the public is gathering at the Capital. The crowds will grow. Given that reality, only a fool would insist on addressing a joint session of Congress in the midst of that.
Of course, that is what we have in this President.