It’s been a year since the Congressional picnic of 2023. The annual event signals that time flies by in the blink of an eye. This year, the South Lawn transformed again into a picturesque setting, welcoming members of Congress and their families for an evening of American bipartisan traditions.
Leader of the Democrats, Hakeem Jeffries, effortlessly stylish in a turquoise shirt and white pants moved through the crowd with ease. His mood was light, his eyes hidden behind a pair of dark shades. The white tables, draped in red and blue checkered cloths, created a vibrant patchwork across the lawn, while mist machines in the background added a whimsical touch to the summer evening at the White House.
Jeffries paused to chat with Senator Bernie Sanders, who was comfortably seated at the table, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. It was a moment where history and the present intertwine, set against the backdrop of the White House.
Senator Bernie Sanders [ Photo credit: Pavlovic Today]
Jill Biden introduced the President on the podium. Addressing the members of Congress, she said today “isn’t about work – today is about you and your families, sharing some laughs, some good food, and enjoying the start of summer before it gets even more hot and humid!”
President Biden, addressing the guests, said Hakeem Jeffies “is the guy who’s going to be the next speaker of the House.” He called Nancy Pelosi the “best speaker in American history.”
Senator Schumer attends the Congressional picnic 2024 at the White House [ Photo credit: Pavlovic Today]
Senator Schumer, always in a good mood at the Congressional picnics, asked about his response to Biden’s executive action on immigration— that will allow the administration to ban asylum seekers who cross the US-Mexico border illegally— said, the President is doing “a good job.”
US Deputy Assistant Secretary Gabriel Escobar, the outgoing Envoy for the Western Balkans was chatting in a group of people standing next to his sister, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.
DAS Gabriel Escobar, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar at the Congressional picnic at the White House [ Photo credit: Pavlovic Today]
White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients was spotted at the table talking to Democratic Whip Katherine Clark.
Contrary to the previous year, where members of Congress were more inclined to engage with the press, this year saw only Rep. Lauren Underwood stepping up to the press pen. Describing the event akin to the “neighborhood block parties” she is used to in Illinois. Underwood highlighted the bipartisan nature of the gathering as an “exciting opportunity to come together as members of Congress, not as Democrats or Republicans, but just as House and Senate colleagues with our families to have a nice time together.”
Children frolicked on the “best lawn in America,” playing tag and turning cartwheels, their carefree joy echoing the idyllic scene of a Hollywood movie.
As the tunes of “What You Won’t Do for Love” began to waft across the South Lawn, President Biden, was told that it’s time to depart for Paris to mark the anniversary of D-Day. He thanked all the guests for coming. “I really appreciate what you do,” Biden said. “Remember, this is the United States of America, there is nothing beyond our capacity,” he bid farewell to the assembled guests.
