Shaun Heasley/Getty Images
Early morning baseball practice turned into a politically-motivated bloodbath on Wednesday, as House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and three others were shot by James T. Hodgkinskin and his semi-automatic rifle. But nevertheless, participating representatives from congress agree that the show must go on.
More than 50 representatives from Congress will participate in the 57th Congressional Baseball Game at Nationals Park in Washington DC. This game will consist of seven innings, unlike MLB games that run for a nine-inning minimum.
But what is the Congressional Baseball Game?
This annual sporting event was established in 1909. For years, members of congress has fulfilled this tradition and woke up in the wee hours of the morning weeks before to practice for the traditional game between Democrats and Republicans. Now, if only they were that dedicated in performing their regular duties.
The Congressional Baseball Game has been cancelled in the past. During World War II and The Great Depression, all games were off (at least on the baseball diamond). In 1958, Speaker Sam Rayburn attempted to end the annual game for good because it was “too physical.” Rayburn’s plan succeeded up until 1962 when the game became reestablished with commercial sponsorship (better than tax-paid foolishness).
The Republicans and Democrats are currently tied in the series: 39-39-1. Who will break that tie tonight?
Political Parties Coming Together For Baseball and Prayers
Tensions are high between political parties, but hopefully they’ll leave their differences aside and play a good game on the baseball diamond. Both Democrats and Republicans joined together in prayer for House Majority Whip.
This event will benefit charitable organizations such as The Washington Literacy Center, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington and the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation. The game started at 7:05 P.M. EST, and is currently in progress. Look below and find out how you can live stream tonight’s political game.
Who’s leading in the congressional game? What team won? Check out the results of the game right here:
