Ellmers won't attend Obama reception for freshmen lawmakers

U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers, a Dunn Republican, declined an invitation from the White House to attend a reception at 7:30 this evening with President Barack Obama.

Obama had invited all freshman members of Congress to attend the reception tonight hosted by him and First Lady Michelle Obama. Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden, also are scheduled to attend. Ellmers is the only new member from North Carolina.

“She declined because she chose not to go,” said Ellmers spokeswoman Lorie Byrd.

Ellmers is spending much of today on pro-life events surrounding the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. She also has an organizational committee meeting scheduled for this evening, and was invited to a fund-raising barbecue near Capitol Hill for fellow North Carolina Republican Rep. Walter Jones, according to her office. Jones was one of Ellmers’ key supporters during last year’s campaign.