US House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed support for his country in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, urging leaders to calm down the divisive rhetoric and address reality. He believes that this could be a turning point for the nation, and he wants lawmakers to stop calling each other names.
Johnson said that Charlie Kirk’s death has caused “anger, sadness, and fear” on Capitol Hill. However, he also wants his friend’s memory honored by continuing to speak truth, bring calm, and address reality.
The speaker believes that leaders should focus on their “better angels” and try to be more like Charlie Kirk – loving the fellow person on the other side of the table. He is also speaking with lawmakers about increasing security for public office holders after Kirk’s death.
Meanwhile, the White House has requested $58 million from Congress to increase security for the executive and judicial branches.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/mike-johnson-house-speaker-charlie-kirk-assassination-turning-point-face-the-nation-09-14-2025