Huffman: Democrats Given a Hobson’s Choice on Kirk Resolution

Today, at a critical moment when Americans should stand united against political violence, and when every member of Congress was prepared to put our differences aside and condemn the heinous murder of Charlie Kirk and express our heartfelt condolences for his family, House Republicans unfortunately chose to play political games with H. Res. 719, a measure deliberately drafted as a partisan trap. The resolution includes important statements condemning political violence and the tragedy of Mr. Kirk’s murder, but it also includes highly objectionable characterizations and outright misrepresentations about Mr. Kirk that no Democrat agrees with. This is the only vote that will be allowed because Republicans control the House agenda — so they cynically presented Democrats a Hobson’s choice, knowing many would vote “no” because of the objectionable partisan provisions, and Republicans will then flood rightwing media with accusations that Democrats refuse to condemn political violence and somehow condone Mr. Kirk’s murder — a gross misrepresentation, but unfortunately the kind of willful falsehood that drives so much of their politics these days.

For my colleagues who chose to vote “no,” I know that each of them deplores political violence and condemns the murder of Mr. Kirk, and I regret that rightwing media and our GOP colleagues are about to misrepresent the meaning of those votes in a way that further divides and inflames our polarized country.

For myself, I chose to vote “yes,” but I don’t want that to be misunderstood, so I will tell you exactly what my vote means, and what it doesn’t mean. It means I understand that this is probably the only vote I will have on the matter, and denouncing political violence is my paramount concern in this moment. I also don’t want to play into the GOP’s partisan trap. But if anyone is foolish enough to think I agree with the parts of this resolution that sanctify and sacralize Mr. Kirk’s opinions and world view, let me be clear: I profoundly disagree with Mr. Kirk’s opinions and actions, but I still deplore his murder, I feel terrible for his family, and I categorically condemn all acts of political violence. That is what my vote means.

My Democratic colleagues and I are leading a more responsible and comprehensive resolution that recognizes this moment as something bigger than one person or one act. Our resolution references the many other recent acts of political violence that span the political spectrum, and we condemn all of it without trying to turn the scourge of political violence into a partisan wedge. I urge House Republicans to stop politicizing and mischaracterizing this problem and join us in showing real leadership by bringing the Democratic resolution to the Floor where I know it would receive resounding bipartisan support — something everyone in America, regardless of political party, would welcome.

The resolution led by Democratic Representatives Marc Veasey (TX-33) and Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) makes clear that:

• Violence and threats have no place in American politics.
• Disputes must be resolved through lawful, peaceful, democratic means.
• All officials — regardless of party or ideology — deserve safety, dignity, and respect.
• Law enforcement must thoroughly investigate and hold accountable those who commit or incite political violence.
• Leaders and media alike must reject rhetoric that dehumanizes opponents and instead foster civil discourse.

Congressman Jared Huffman represents California’s 2nd Congressional District, which spans the North Coast of the state from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Oregon border, and includes Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, and Del Norte counties. He currently serves as Ranking Member of the Committee on Natural Resources and as a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He is the founder of the Congressional Freethought Caucus.