Congressman Honors Grateful Dead's Bob Weir with Barefoot House Floor Tribute

California Democrat Jared Huffman took off his shoes and socks to pay homage to the rock legend's legacy and bipartisan appeal.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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On February 4, 2026, Congressman Jared Huffman delivered a special order speech on the House floor to honor the late Grateful Dead guitarist Bob Weir. Huffman, who represents California's Marin County, removed his shoes and socks before speaking in order to pay tribute to Weir's free-spirited persona. The congressman spoke about his personal connection to the band and its music, as well as Weir's bipartisan appeal.

Why it matters

Huffman's barefoot tribute to Weir on the House floor was an unusual and memorable way to honor the Grateful Dead icon, reflecting the band's enduring cultural impact and ability to transcend partisan divides. As a longtime representative of the Grateful Dead's home base in Marin County, Huffman's personal connection to the band lent authenticity to the tribute.

The details

During the special order session, Huffman took off his shoes and socks before stepping up to the podium to deliver his remarks. He was worried he might be stopped or fined for the unconventional gesture, but was ultimately able to complete his tribute without incident. Huffman spoke about his longstanding appreciation for the Grateful Dead's music, as well as his personal interactions with band members like Mickey Hart and Phil Lesh.

  • Huffman delivered the tribute on February 4, 2026.
  • Weir passed away on January 10, 2026.

The players

Jared Huffman

A U.S. Congressman representing California's 2nd congressional district, which includes Marin County, the home base of the Grateful Dead. Huffman is an avid guitar player and has collaborated with members of the band at political events.

Bob Weir

The legendary guitarist and founding member of the Grateful Dead, known for his innovative playing style and free-spirited persona.

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What they’re saying

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

— Jared Huffman, U.S. Congressman (Rolling Stone)

“He was just sounding off about the state of the world, and I told him what a weird trip it was to be in the arena in this moment, and Bob quipped back that he was glad that he was too old to be drafted.”

— Jared Huffman, U.S. Congressman (Rolling Stone)

What’s next

The House of Representatives will officially enter Huffman's barefoot tribute to Bob Weir into the congressional record, ensuring it becomes a permanent part of the historical record.

The takeaway

Congressman Huffman's unique tribute to the Grateful Dead's Bob Weir on the House floor highlights the band's enduring cultural significance and ability to transcend partisan divides, even in the modern political landscape.