Leavitt criticizes Psaki’s remarks on prayer following the Minneapolis school shooting.

Comments on Prayer Spark Controversy After School Shooting

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized “disrespectful” remarks made by former Biden aide and MSNBC host Jen Psaki following a tragic shooting at a church school.

Authorities reported that two children lost their lives, and many others were injured when gunmen opened fire during a service at the Minneapolis Announcement Catholic School. In the immediate wake of the incident, Psaki dismissed the notion of “thoughts and prayers” as an inadequate response.

“Prayers don’t prevent school shootings. They don’t make parents feel secure sending their kids to school. And they certainly don’t bring back those we’ve lost,” she stated.

During a White House press briefing, reporters posed questions to Leavitt regarding Psaki’s comments. Leavitt expressed her disagreement, calling Psaki’s attitude “indifferent and rude,” adding that many Americans of faith believe in the strength of prayer during difficult times.

“Her comments undermine the beliefs of millions who find solace in prayer,” Leavitt asserted.

Psaki further criticized prayer on a Wednesday night show, stating, “Politicians often offer little more than thoughts and prayers. It’s all they seem to provide after such tragedies.” She pointed out remarks made by Vice President J.D. Vance, who also urged the public to “pray for the victims.”

In response, Vance defended the practice of prayer amid sorrow. “It may seem simple, but we pray because our hearts are broken. We pray believing that God hears us,” he explained.

In a follow-up comment, Vance noted the absurdity of opposing prayers for those affected by tragedy, saying, “Why would anyone question praying for innocent victims?”