MSNBC host Jen Psaki, a former Biden administration spokesperson, has sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s approach to addressing crime in Washington, D.C. and the power of prayer in the wake of a devastating church school shooting in Minneapolis. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at the Annunciation Catholic School during a Mass, resulted in the deaths of at least two children and injuries to over a dozen others. The suspect, identified as Robin Westman (formerly Robert Westman), was found dead at the scene following the attack. Court records reveal that Westman legally changed their name to Robin in 2019, reflecting their gender identity. This development has added another layer to the already complex narrative surrounding the tragedy.
Pali’s remarks came in the wake of a national conversation about ways to prevent mass shootings. While many Americans, including members of the Catholic and Orthodox traditions, typically offer prayers for victims and their families, gun control advocates argue that these gestures are not enough to address the underlying causes of gun violence. Psaki, in a post on X, formerly Twitter, echoed this sentiment, stating that ‘prayer is not freaking enough’ and that ‘prayers do not end school shootings.’ She further criticized Trump’s plan to deploy the National Guard to D.C. and assert oversight of the Metropolitan Police Department, suggesting that the approach is misdirected.
Her comments have drawn a mix of reactions, with some critics arguing that she is being hypocritical, as she has previously offered prayers for victims of mass shootings. Karen Hamilton, a candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates, pointed out that Psaki had publicly expressed support for prayers in the past and called on others to understand the spiritual comfort that prayer provides. Some have also called out Psaki’s rhetoric as being dismissive of faith-based responses to tragedy, with one journalist noting that her comments reflect a broader ideological battle over the role of religion in public life.
The incident has also highlighted the broader debate over how to address gun violence in the United States. While Ms. Psaki’s comments emphasize the need for policy-driven solutions, others continue to argue that spiritual practices and community support are essential components of healing and resilience. The ongoing discussion underscores the complex interplay between public safety, faith, and political ideology in shaping America’s response to mass shootings.
As the nation mourns the victims of the Minneapolis shooting, the debate over how to prevent future tragedies continues. Psaki’s critique of both prayer and Trump’s crime strategy has reignited a national conversation that is as much about politics as it is about the deeply rooted faith traditions of many Americans. The tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of gun violence and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions that can bring about real change.