As Vice President JD Vance paid his respects to the victims of last week’s deadly mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, protesters stood across the street, carrying a ‘progress pride’ flag with transgender colors and heckling the vice president. The incident, which occurred during a school Mass, resulted in the deaths of two young children and injuries to 21 others. The shooter, Robin Westman, was identified as a former Minneapolis juvenile named Robert Westman who legally changed his name in 2019. Authorities confirmed he was armed with three legally purchased firearms during the attack.
Vance, who is Catholic, visited the site of the shooting and spent time with victims and their families. He was seen pausing in front of a statue of the Virgin Mary before entering the church, where protesters shouted various slogans, including ‘protect our kids’ and ‘do better.’ Conservative columnist Dustin Grage criticized the protesters for being ‘tone-deaf’ in their response to the tragedy. The FBI has labeled the shooting as ‘barbaric domestic terrorism’ with anti-religious motives.
In an interview with reporters after the visit, Vance expressed deep emotional impact from the events. He described the scene as ‘heartbreaking’ and ‘gratifying,’ highlighting the resilience of the families and communities affected. He called for increased focus on preventing violent individuals from accessing firearms and shared personal reflections on the loss of two children, emphasizing the importance of remembering their lives and hopes. Vance also urged continued prayer for the injured victims, acknowledging their ongoing struggle for recovery.
During the visit, Vance addressed concerns about potential threats to children from individuals experiencing gender dysphoria, stating that authorities should investigate anyone planning to target children. He reiterated the families’ call for more comprehensive measures to address the root causes of such violence, including stricter gun control policies. His comments underscored his commitment to honoring the victims and their families by advocating for safer communities and stronger gun laws.