Well, I've been to DC 3 times and have met Obama more than 3 times.
I don't agree with his politics, so there would be no reason for me to go. It certainly would be a personal decision, and I think that should be respected in a nation that claims freedom as its trademark.
I'd like to leave it at that considering this is a hockey forum and not a politics forum.
Hey, whatever floats your boat, but the problem I have with players refusing to go is that they're refusing to go on a team trip. By not going, you're directing media attention away from your team on what should otherwise just be a feel good day for them.
Thomas, for instance, wasn't making a political statement, he was being selfish and making a team event slightly awkward by making himself the center of attention.
Look at Ditka, a guy who had repeatedly said that he regretted not running against Obama for the senate seat in 2004. Even he went with the 85 Bears when they finally went, because he put the team first.