A solemn moment of silence in the U.S. House of Representatives for slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk turned tense after partisan clashes erupted on the chamber floor.
House Speaker Mike Johnson asked lawmakers to rise and join in prayer for Kirk and his family following his fatal shooting at a university event in Utah.
As members stood in silence, Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) called for prayers to be said aloud, declaring:
“Silent prayers produce silent results.”
Her remarks drew criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who accused Republicans of hypocrisy for ignoring a school shooting in Colorado that had occurred the same day.
Heated Exchange on the House Floor
The situation escalated when Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) shouted:
“You all caused this!”
Speaker Johnson repeatedly attempted to restore order, urging lawmakers to remain respectful. He eventually said:
“We will unite in prayer immediately after this, all right?”
The moment highlighted the deep partisan divides in Washington, even during what was intended to be a unifying tribute.
Background: Charlie Kirk’s Death
Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of Donald Trump, was shot in the neck while answering questions at Utah Valley University. He was rushed to a hospital but later pronounced dead.
His killing has shocked the nation, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum — though the House incident revealed just how polarized the U.S. remains on issues of violence, prayer, and political rhetoric.
