Congressman Shri Thanedar Votes NO on Charlie Kirk Resolution

Congressman Shri Thanedar Votes NO on Charlie Kirk Resolution

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) released the following statement regarding his vote on H.Res. 719:

"Political violence should never be tolerated. In America, we must settle our differences at the ballot box and through civic action, not violence," said Congressman Thanedar.

As a father, Congressman Thanedar has personally experienced family tragedy. "In 1996, I lost my wife to mental illness when my sons were just 4 and 8 years old. I can empathize with the Kirk family's loss. No child should experience the pain of losing a parent," he said.

While expressing sympathy, Congressman Thanedar emphasized that empathy does not require agreement with the resolution. H.Res. 719 sought to honor Charlie Kirk, but Congressman Thanedar highlighted his concerns with Kirk's long public record of comments disparaging to Black Americans.

"I represent Detroit, the Blackest major city in the country. Given Mr. Kirk's history of remarks that questioned the intelligence, merit, and qualifications of Black professionals, I could not in good conscience vote yes on this resolution," said Thanedar.

Mr. Kirk has often focused his commentary on affirmative action and diversity programs. In one podcast episode, he claimed that accomplished Black women such as Joy Reid, Michelle Obama, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee did not "have the brain processing power" to be taken seriously and had "stolen a white person's slot."

"These women did not steal anything. They earned their achievements through hard work, talent, and excellence," Congressman Thanedar stated.

Congressman Thanedar concluded by noting that true heroes uplift everyone. "A hero is someone who fights for everyone, especially those who have been historically left behind. For many in Detroit, Mr. Kirk's words and actions felt demeaning, not uplifting. He did not earn a hero's recognition."

Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.

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