Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Charlie Kirk GOP Resolution

Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Charlie Kirk GOP Resolution

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement regarding her decision not to support the divisive resolution on Charlie Kirk put forward by Speaker Johnson:

As I expressed last week following Charlie Kirk's horrifying assassination, my heart goes out to Mr. Kirk's family and loved ones. The loss of anyone in such a violent manner is tragic and sadly all too common. It has raised important issues including the need to address gun violence, political violence, and the manner in which all Americans relate to one another. Increasingly violent rhetoric in our politics and culture is manifesting itself in increasing political violence.

I'm grateful that this resolution addresses some of these issues.

I remember the series of assassinations and attempted assassinations that rocked the country in the 1960s and 70s: Medgar Evars, John and Robert Kennedy, George Lincoln Rockwell, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, Fred Hampton, Richard Nixon, and George Wallace. Hate, discrimination, and distrust led to political violence that tore the country apart. We need a national conversation about how we learn the lessons of our past and build a better future for everyone.

I encourage us all to reflect on the country we want to live in. And to ensure our words and actions point us in that direction. If we are to have a thriving democracy we must be able to disagree and fight for what we believe in without denying each other's humanity. Much of the political rhetoric in recent years has failed this test. I pray we return to a place where, despite our differences, we can recognize the humanity in every one of us.

Tackling these issues will require a thoughtful and honest national conversation. The resolution voted on today called on members to honor the legacy of Charlie Kirk. I could not honestly lend my name to his legacy. Charlie Kirk had a conviction and passion for expressing his opinions and for moving them forward in the national conversation. Unfortunately, much of that legacy involved hateful rhetoric about many fellow Americans, specifically the LGBTQ community, Muslims, and other minorities, particularly Black women. For that reason, I could not vote for this resolution.

Mr. Kirk's assassination was a horrible crime against him, his family, and our nation. I pray for all three.