House Speaker Criticizes Democrats Over Resolution for Charlie Kirk
On Friday, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his disappointment towards Democrats on Fox Business for not supporting a resolution that honored Charlie Kirk’s life and legacy.
The House of Representatives passed the resolution with a vote tally of 310-58. Among those opposing it were 58 Democrats, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jasmine Crockett. During an interview, Johnson condemned political violence, lauded Kirk’s advocacy for free speech and patriotism, and urged for unity among Americans in the wake of recent tragic events.
“Larry, 118 Democrats decided not to vote for the resolution, which is essentially about recognizing young Americans who embodied our principles: patriotism and freedom of speech,” Johnson stated to host Larry Kudlow. “This resolution denounced political violence and the assassination that has shaken our country. I think it’s quite shameful that Democrats voted against it.”
Johnson noted that although there was initial bipartisan interest in honoring Kirk’s legacy, Democrats eventually backed away.
“Everyone in Congress wanted to take some action. They intended to honor the remarkable legacy of their friend Charlie Kirk, but Democrats viewed it differently,” he remarked.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, alongside his leadership team, voiced support for the resolution, with 38 Democrats voting in favor while 22 abstained from voting.
Kirk was tragically shot and killed during a lecture at Utah Valley University on September 10th, with authorities charging 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder. Investigators linked Robinson to leftist ideologies.
Democrat leaders showed support for the resolution in a private meeting but did not guide members on how to vote, according to reports. The National Republican Congressional Committee has accused Democrats of refusing to back the resolution.
“Modern Democrats appear too radical and indifferent to honor the two men and the father who opposed politically motivated assassinations,” NRCC spokesman Mike Marinella stated.