Response to School Shooting Draws Controversy

California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly mocked the idea of prayer following a recent school shooting in Minnesota that left two children dead and 17 injured. On social media, he reacted to various calls for prayers by pointing out that, tragically, the victims were praying when the incident occurred.

“These kids were literally praying when they were shot,” Newsom stated in a post that many interpreted as a critique of faith and religious responses to violence.

In stark contrast, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey rebuked Newsom’s comments, labeling his remarks as “evil” and standing firmly behind the importance of prayer. “The families affected by this horrifying event are people of faith. The children at the Announcement Catholic School are people of faith. They need our prayers,” she wrote. Ivey expressed disappointment at the nature of Newsom’s remarks, especially coming from a fellow governor.

After the shooting, Ivey ordered all flags to be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the victims.

Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary and current CNN host, also criticized the reliance on prayers. She remarked, “Prayers don’t go far enough. Prayer doesn’t end school shootings. Prayer doesn’t make parents feel safe taking their children to school.” She called such responses insufficient in the face of tragedy.

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana voiced his disbelief at Newsom and Psaki’s comments, calling them a caricature of insensitivity. “It’s incredible that they attack religion during a major tragedy,” he said, emphasizing the faith of millions of Americans.

Caroline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump White House, also condemned Newsom’s remarks, stating they were disrespectful to millions of Americans who believe in the power of prayer.