Shouting broke out on the House floor after Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) held a moment of prayer for conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon.
After the moment of silence, Johnson recognized Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.).
“I believe that silent prayers get silent results,” Boebert said. “Is there someone who could lead us in a moment of prayer out loud for Charlie and his family —”
Groans and a shout of “no” broke out as Boebert continued, “— and the victims in Colorado,” in an apparent reference to a Wednesday shooting at a high school in Colorado.
A lawmaker who appeared to be protesting Boebert’s request shouted something about children.
Shouting back and forth ensued for several seconds, as someone yelled: “A school shooting in Colorado.”
The normally calm Johnson shouted and banged his gavel: “The House will be in order.”
Following the exchange, Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-VA) took the oath of office as the newest member of the House in the seat held by his former boss, the late Rep. Gerry Connolly.