In the wake of the tragic assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his belief that this incident could serve as a pivotal moment for the nation. During an appearance on CBS's Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan, Johnson emphasized the urgent need for leaders to tone down divisive rhetoric in the current political climate. The Louisiana Republican stated that lawmakers must stop viewing policy disagreements as existential threats to democracy and should refrain from name-calling.
Johnson remarked, "Calling people Nazis and fascists is not helpful." He pointed out that the increasingly hostile language used by some leaders can incite deranged individuals in society to take harmful actions. The Speaker urged all politicians to acknowledge this reality and to address it appropriately. He expressed optimism that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are recognizing the importance of this issue and are stepping up to promote a more respectful dialogue.
Charlie Kirk was tragically shot and killed at Utah Valley University last week, in what officials have labeled a targeted attack. Authorities have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, charging him with aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm resulting in serious injury. According to an inmate booking sheet from the Utah County Sheriff's Office, Robinson is currently not cooperating with authorities as they investigate the motive behind this heinous act.
Johnson shared that Kirk's assassination has cast a significant shadow over Capitol Hill, evoking feelings of anger, sadness, and fear among lawmakers. "My good friend Charlie would not want any of us to be consumed by despair," Johnson said. He reiterated that Kirk would encourage everyone to move forward boldly, motivated by love and compassion.
In an effort to honor Kirk’s memory, Johnson outlined plans for a moment of prayer and silent reflection on the House floor shortly after Kirk's death. He also announced a scheduled vigil at the Kennedy Center in Washington, along with a reflection session he will lead for members of Congress. "This will continue," he affirmed, emphasizing that the nation needs to see leaders speaking truth and promoting calm in these tumultuous times.
Johnson invoked President Abraham Lincoln's appeal to the nation's better angels while advocating for a more loving approach to political discourse, inspired by Kirk’s legacy. He noted that while Kirk championed the free marketplace of ideas and vigorous debate, he was also driven by a genuine love for others, regardless of their political stance.
In light of Kirk's assassination, Johnson has been in discussions with fellow lawmakers about the heightened atmosphere of fear among public officials. He reassured them that measures will be implemented to ensure adequate security for all. Concurrently, the White House is preparing a $58 million request to Congress aimed at enhancing security for both the executive and judicial branches following this tragic event. The Trump administration has shown support for increased funding to bolster security for congressional members but may defer the specifics to the legislative branch.
Johnson concluded by stating that House GOP leaders are evaluating various options to ensure that resources are available for lawmakers' residential and personal security. He highlighted the courage required for public service, noting that first responders, military personnel, and political figures display such bravery daily.
