A heated exchange unfolded on the House floor during a moment of silence for Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, as Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) demanded a spoken prayer, sparking backlash from Democrats.
The incident occurred after Boebert called for a prayer, stating, “Silent prayers get silent results,” according to reports. Her request drew immediate opposition, with Democrats shouting “no!” and referencing a school shooting that had taken place earlier in the day. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) then interrupted the silence, accusing Democrats of inciting violence and expletive-laden rhetoric before Speaker Mike Johnson intervened.
Luna, who previously worked as Kirk’s director of Hispanic engagement at Turning Point USA, reportedly shouted, “You caused this!” in response to Democratic criticism. The exchange escalated further when Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) called for gun law reforms, prompting warnings from some lawmakers about the rising tensions in Congress.
A House Republican, speaking anonymously, described the scene as “disgusting,” while Rep. Susie Lee (D-Nev.) urged leaders to reduce hostility, calling political violence “scary.” Rep. Dan Meuser (R-Pa.) criticized the behavior as “classless,” noting that some lawmakers had overstepped during the confrontation.
The controversy highlighted frustrations over procedural norms, with Democratic Rep. Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.) stating that praying on the House floor for a non-member was inconsistent with established practices.
