California Congressman Goes Barefoot in House Floor Tribute to Grateful Dead's Bob Weir

Rep. Jared Huffman honored the late rock legend and his impact on their shared North Bay community.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Rep. Jared Huffman, a Democratic congressman from California, delivered remarks on the House floor paying tribute to the late Grateful Dead founding member Bob Weir. Huffman went barefoot during his speech to honor Weir, noting that Weir was a longtime resident of Huffman's Marin County district and had a profound impact on the local music scene and community.

Why it matters

Weir's death at age 78 marked the passing of a true rock icon, and Huffman's tribute on the House floor highlighted Weir's enduring legacy and connection to the Northern California community where he lived for decades. The unusual gesture of delivering the remarks barefoot underscored Weir's influence and the personal connection Huffman felt to the legendary musician.

The details

During his floor speech, Huffman praised Weir as "more than a musical icon" and a beloved part of the North Bay community. He noted that Weir had made his home in Marin, raised his family there, and helped build the vibrant local music scene. Huffman said Weir's "music, his generosity, [and] unmistakable creative spirit" had helped define the identity of the North Coast region.

  • Bob Weir died on January 10.
  • Huffman delivered his tribute remarks on the House floor on February 6, 2026.

The players

Rep. Jared Huffman

A Democratic congressman representing California's Marin County, where Bob Weir lived for decades.

Bob Weir

A founding member of the iconic rock band Grateful Dead, who was known for his influential music and deep ties to the Northern California community.

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What they’re saying

“Bob was more than a musical icon, he was a neighbor, a friend and a beloved part of our North Bay community. For decades, Bob made his home in Marin, raised his family there. Opened his doors to other artists and helped build the vibrant local music vibe that so many of us cherish.”

— Rep. Jared Huffman, U.S. Congressman

“Bob's music, his generosity, unmistakable creative spirit helped define the identity of the North Coast. His legacy will endure every time a kid picks up a guitar. We are grateful that he made our community part of his life. And we send our love to his family, his friends and all my fellow Deadheads across the world.”

— Rep. Jared Huffman, U.S. Congressman

“And Mr. Speaker, let the record reflect I delivered these remarks barefoot in honor of Bobby Weir. I think he would appreciate that.”

— Rep. Jared Huffman, U.S. Congressman

What’s next

The House will likely continue to honor Weir's legacy through additional tributes and recognitions in the coming months.

The takeaway

Weir's deep connection to the Northern California community he called home for decades was underscored by Huffman's personal and heartfelt tribute, which highlighted the enduring impact of Weir's music and spirit on the region.