Vance Critiques Psaki’s Comments on Prayer After School Shooting

On August 28, 2025, Vice President JD Vance took a stand against Jen Psaki’s remarks after a tragic shooting at a Catholic school in Minnesota, where two children lost their lives.

In an exchange on social media, Vance reacted to a post by Psaki that criticized people who offered prayers for the victims. He argued that prayer is a necessary response to such tragedies, stating, “We pray because our hearts are broken. We pray because we know that God will listen.” He even questioned the need for attacking those who find solace in prayer during difficult times.

Vance’s response included a follow-up: “What are you talking about?” highlighting his confusion over her stance.

Psaki, who previously served as White House press secretary under President Biden, had expressed her views by saying that thoughts and prayers don’t bring back the victims or make parents feel safe sending their children to school.

“Prayers don’t go crazy enough. Prayers don’t end school shootings,” she stated, indicating a belief that such sentiments are inadequate.

Caroline Leavitt, the current White House press secretary, also responded to Psaki’s remarks, describing them as “insensitive and rude” to Americans of faith who value prayer.

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, resulted in the deaths of two young children aged 8 and 10, along with injuries to 19 others. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, reportedly took his own life after the attack.

It’s clear that discussions around prayer in the wake of tragedies like these are often contentious, reflecting deeper divides in perspectives on faith and societal responses to violence.