Jayapal Statement on Charlie Kirk Resolution

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement regarding her vote against the resolution honoring Charlie Kirk:

“Charlie Kirk’s death is a tragedy, as is any death in this country due to political violence or gun violence. His murder should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, and his wife, children, and supporters deserve justice. Every one of us, as elected officials, has the responsibility to condemn all political violence from wherever it comes. Congress should have been voting on a unifying resolution to do just that — condemning the horrific assassination of Charlie Kirk, without lionizing his highly controversial speech or actions.

“Unfortunately, this Republican resolution was designed as a political ‘gotcha’ — trying to force every member of Congress to lift up the views of Charlie Kirk rather than simply condemning his assassination. I cannot do that. This resolution does nothing to send a unified message to the country, to prevent further violence, or to turn down the temperature.

“Every one of us should clearly and constantly condemn his assassination and any political violence when it happens. That should not be controversial. But voting for this resolution puts words in my mouth that I endorse Charlie Kirk’s views, when I wholly and fundamentally in my bones am in strong opposition to most of his views.

“I am deeply worried for our country as Republicans are now trying to strip free speech from anyone who criticizes the views he espoused, pushing to pull licenses from TV stations because comedians make jokes, even if some consider them tasteless or disagreeable. The First Amendment gives every person the right to free speech, full stop.

“I would have gladly voted for a resolution that simply condemned his assassination just as I condemned the assassination of Minnesota State Senator Melissa Hortman. Democrats have introduced exactly such a resolution, and I hope we can bring that to the floor, so I can enthusiastically cast a YES vote to condemn the assassination of Charlie Kirk.”