January 1, Vance Defends Prayer After School Shooting Criticism

Wyatt’s Take

J.D. Vance, the Vice President, stood up for prayer after a tragic school shooting in Minnesota. He fired back at TV host Jen Psaki, who said offering prayers wasn’t enough for victims and their families.

• J.D. Vance defended Americans who believe in the power of prayer after a tragedy.
• Jen Psaki argued that prayer alone won’t end school shootings or bring back lost children.
• A White House spokesperson called Psaki’s comments insensitive to millions of faithful Americans.

Two young children, only eight and ten years old, were killed during a morning mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minnesota. The attack left nineteen others hurt, and the shooter, Robin Westman, took his own life at the scene. The FBI quickly identified him after the tragedy.

Vance said,

“We pray because our hearts are broken. We pray because we know God hears.”

He questioned why some attack people for turning to faith in the face of such heartbreak.

Psaki, a former White House press secretary, argued,

“Praying is not enough. Prayer does not end school shootings. Prayer does not make parents feel safe sending their children to school. Prayer does not bring these children back. Enough with condolences and prayers.”

Current White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt pushed back, calling Psaki’s words disrespectful to millions who find strength in prayer.

This incident has reignited debate about faith and public safety in America’s heartland. Many are asking what role prayer and community support play when tragedy strikes.

Read more here

Wyatt Matters

In hard times, Americans have always turned to faith for comfort and hope. Standing together and praying can help communities heal and stay strong through terrible loss.