I think there might be a problem with the idea of boycotting the state of the union address

[unblock]

It is formally a Joint session of Congress. While that’s historically been used solely for things like allowing presidents and dignitaries address congress, I would think they could conduct ordinary congressional business if so inclined.

If so, democrats boycotting would give republicans the ability to pass a bill through the senate without a filibuster, given insufficient democrats present.

So I’d think, better to go a turn their backs or protest in another way.

Or if they do boycott it, stand right outside in the hall so they can run in at a moment’s notice.

[jberryhill]

1. It's an insubstantial ceremonial ritual

[Golden Raisin]

2. And televised.

Any Republican shenanigans, mischief or tricks would be filmed.

[unblock]

4. they would think it a yuge triumph if they could repeal obamacare in the middle of a sotu address.

they have neither shame nor conscience.

being televised would be a plus in their minds.

[Sophia4]

3. The most effective action would be to have Democrats exit Congress one by one

during the speech.

[Kirk Lover]

5. This is a GREAT idea. And the next one should not exit until the last has shut the door.

Drag out the exit...and quite the dramatic effect.

[NightWatcher]

6. Best idea ever. Imagine how much that'd piss him off.

I'd bet that it would throw him off the teleprompter and send him off the deep end.

A slow steady stream of Democrats and their guests just slowly filing out would be glorious.

[bluestarone]

8. i like that

[former9thward]

7. It doesn't work that way.

One Senator is enough to start a filibuster. Sixty is needed to overcome it assuming it is not judicial nominations.

[unblock]

9. key question, is it 3/5th of *all* senators, or 3/5ths of all senators *present*?

eta:

according to wiki, 16 senators are needed to invoke cloture, so we'd need to keep 16 senators to prevent any shenanigans.
once that happens, the 60-vote thing doesn't happen for at least 2 legislative days later, so that should be enough to prevent any surprises.

in any event, it seems it takes 3/5th of all sworn-in senators, whether or not they are present, to end cloture.

[moondust]

10. Can't they all just repeatedly yell:

"YOU LIE!" "YOU LIE!" "YOU LIE!" "YOU LIE!" "YOU LIE!" "YOU LIE!"

[unblock]

11. +1000