House Democratic leaders plan to support a Republican-sponsored resolution condemning political violence and recognizing Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, following the recent fatal shooting of the conservative leader in Utah, The Hill reported Thursday.
The measure is expected to be discussed on the floor later this week after a closed-door meeting in the Capitol basement on Thursday morning. Top leaders told lawmakers that they plan to support the resolution but will not require others to do so.
Kirk was assassinated at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah last Wednesday afternoon. Police have identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the suspect in the slaying, and he is currently being held without bail in the Utah County Jail. Prosecutors filed a capital murder charge Tuesday against Robinson and will seek the death penalty.
The Republican resolution, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., honors Kirk for his civil discourse and dedication to unity, and urges Americans to reject political violence, promote respectful debate, and uphold American values.
The GOP has put the minority party in an ethical bind of sorts, knowing that if they vote against the measure they will be seen as being weak on political violence. If they vote for the Republicans' resolution, they will be seen as giving tepid approval to Kirk's conservative message, which the base of their party strongly opposes.
House Democrats are reportedly preparing their own resolution led by Reps. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, and Brittany Pettersen, D-Colo., that condemns all political violence against public officials, candidates and public figures, regardless of party or ideology. The measure, first obtained by Politico, references several recent violent incidents involving both parties.
James Morley III ✉
James Morley III is a writer with more than two decades of experience in entertainment, travel, technology, and science and nature.