House Passes Resolution Honoring Charlie Kirk Amid Democratic Opposition
The House approved a resolution honoring Charlie Kirk, with notable opposition from some Democratic members.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was assassinated on September 10 during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. The resolution, H. Res. 719, was approved with a bipartisan vote of 310-58-38.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) opposed the resolution, stating that it was introduced on a "purely partisan basis, instead of uniting Congress." She condemned Kirk's murder but expressed concern that the resolution "brings great pain to the millions of Americans who endured segregation, Jim Crow, and the legacy of bigotry today." Ocasio-Cortez criticized Kirk's ideology, describing his rhetoric and beliefs as "ignorant, uneducated, and sought to disenfranchise millions of Americans."
The resolution describes Kirk as a "devoted Christian," "dedicated husband," and "loving father" of two. It commends his founding of Turning Point USA and his personification of the First Amendment. The House resolution condemns Kirk's assassination and all forms of political violence, commends law enforcement for apprehending the alleged killer, extends condolences to Kirk's family, honors his life and legacy, and calls upon all Americans to "reject political violence, recommit to respectful debate, uphold American values, and respect one another as fellow Americans."
In addition to Ocasio-Cortez, 57 other Democrats voted against the resolution, including Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.). However, 95 Democrats voted in favor, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Whip Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), and Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.).
Representative Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) supported the resolution, stating, "Peaceful debate drives our political system, and Charlie Kirk embodied that sentiment, encouraging young people to become involved in our political process. This bipartisan resolution sends a clear message that politically motivated violence has no place in our society."