Mannerism adopted for Pope’s forthcoming address to Congress
Pope Francis is to deliver an address to a joint session of Congress on September 24 and lawmakers are preparing to adopt appropriate mannerism to sit through the session.
The lawmakers are expected in the coming days to receive protocol guidance amid fears that the first-ever papal address to Congress could provoke a State of the Union-like atmosphere, where one half of the chamber stands to cheer while the other sits grim-faced.
The Pope is famous for making political audiences uneasy, and his calls for global leaders to reduce inequality and to act on climate change might sound like a speech by President Barack Obama to some Republicans.
At the same time, the Pope’s opposition to abortion could make some Democrats uncomfortable and result in GOP cheers, considering a highly-charged debate over federal funding for Planned Parenthood that is threatening to bring about a government shutdown at the end of the month.
Lawmakers say they will be conscious to not politicize the speech, and say they will avoid the kinds of theatrics familiar to State of the Union audiences and won’t applaud or cheer based on political preferences.
“Congress will be on its very best behavior on this occasion,” said Rep. Charlie Dent, a Republican from Pennsylvania.
On the sidelines of the Pope’s visit to the nation’s capital next week, the US Capitol Police have announced a series of street closures and security notices.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid driving in the area and use alternate means of transportation. The government will advise employees to telework from home to avoid traffic snarls.
Metro Transit Police Department Chief Pavlik said, “We’re taking various measures to ensure a safe and secure event, so whether it’s through technology or other means that may be covert or overt.”
He added there will not be a bag-screening program but security officials will continue the random search currently in place.
Thousands are expected to visit Washington during the Pope’s three-day visit, which will culminate with his speech on Capitol Hill.
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