Ilhan Omar made critical comments about Charlie Kirk after his assassination, questioning the portrayal of Kirk as someone who simply wanted to have a civil debate. In an interview with the progressive news outlet Zeteo, she recounted Kirk's controversial positions on issues like gun control, police reform, race, and his past rhetoric, labeling the idea that he was only about civil discourse as "completely f-ed up." Omar also stated that Kirk's words and actions over the last decade included problematic remarks, such as downplaying slavery and the significance of Juneteenth. She expressed empathy for Kirk's wife and children and said she did not wish violence on anyone, emphasizing her faith's teachings about peace and compassion. Omar criticized Republicans for attacking Democrats over their rhetoric in the aftermath of Kirk's death and accused them of distorting her words. Despite this, her remarks have prompted Republican representatives to introduce resolutions seeking to punish her by removing her from her committee assignments in the House, accusing her of disparaging Kirk's legacy and implying he was to blame for his own murder.
