White House Press Secretary Slams Psaki, Frey Over Prayer Remarks

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sharply criticized former press secretary Jen Psaki and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for their comments dismissing the value of prayer following a tragic school sh–ting in Minneapolis. The remarks, made in the wake of a devastating incident at Annunciation Catholic Church, have sparked a heated debate about faith and action in times of crisis.

On Wednesday, a sh–ting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School left two children, ages 8 and 10, dead and 17 others injured during a morning Mass. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, a former student, reportedly took their own life after the attack.

Psaki, now an MSNBC host, posted on X that “Prayer is not freaking enough. Prayers do not end school sh–tings. Prayers do not make parents feel safe sending their kids to school.” Her comments echoed sentiments expressed by Mayor Frey during a press conference, where he emphasized the tragedy’s gravity, noting, “These kids were literally praying.”

Leavitt, addressing reporters Thursday, called Psaki’s remarks “incredibly insensitive and disrespectful” to millions of Americans who find solace in prayer. She urged Psaki to pray for the affected families, stating, “It’s utterly disrespectful to deride the power of prayer in this country.”

Vice President JD Vance also weighed in, defending prayer’s role in times of grief. On X, he wrote, “We pray because our hearts are broken. We pray because we know God listens,” labeling the criticism of prayer as a “bizarre” culture war.

Frey and Psaki’s comments reflect a broader push among some Democrats for stronger gun control measures, arguing that prayers alone cannot address the epidemic of gun violence. Frey stressed the need for actionable steps, pointing to the alleged 268 mass sh–tings reported in the U.S. this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Leavitt countered that the administration is addressing mental health and school safety, citing First Lady Melania Trump’s call for vigilance in reporting warning signs. She emphasized, “If you see something, say something,” urging communities to report threats to law enforcement.

The sh–ting has reignited tensions over how to respond to such tragedies, with some advocating for policy changes while others defend the importance of spiritual support. Leavitt’s remarks underscore a divide, as she accused critics of undermining the faith of millions.

Social media reactions have been mixed, with some supporting Psaki’s call for action over prayer, while others, like commentator Meghan McCain, harshly criticized her, calling her a “ghoul.” The debate continues to unfold as Minneapolis mourns.

The White House’s defense of prayer comes amid broader efforts to address crime, including recent moves to bolster law enforcement in Washington, D.C. Leavitt’s strong rebuke signals the administration’s commitment to protecting the values of faith-based Americans.

As the community grapples with grief, the controversy highlights the challenge of balancing spiritual responses with demands for concrete solutions. The nation watches as leaders navigate this delicate and divisive issue.