California Governor Gavin Newsom recently mocked the act of praying in light of a tragic school shooting that occurred this week.
On social media, he and other Democrats ridiculed those who called for prayers following the incident in Minnesota, where two children lost their lives and fourteen others were injured, noting that prayer was happening at the time of the shooting.
This statement has been widely interpreted as a slight against faith and Christianity.
In response, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey labeled Newsom’s comments as “evil” during a statement made on Friday.
Following the tragedy, Ivey ordered that all flags be flown at half-staff to honor the victims.
Similarly, former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, now a CNN host, shared her outrage at the prayer call, stating, “Prayers don’t do enough.” She emphasized that prayer does not prevent school shootings or ensure parents’ peace of mind when sending their children to school. “Thoughts and prayers are insufficient,” she added.
House Speaker Mike Johnson responded to both Newsom’s and Psaki’s remarks, criticizing them for attacking religion during such a significant tragedy. He expressed disbelief at the lengths to which they would go to garner attention, stating, “It’s appalling to see them undermine the faith of millions of Americans.”
Caroline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump White House, also condemned Newsom’s comments, calling them “indifferent and disrespectful” to the millions of Americans who believe in the power of prayer.
