Capitol News

Senate Democrats in Michigan declined to take up a resolution introduced by Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt on Tuesday. The resolution aimed to honor Charlie Kirk and condemn political violence on the National Day of Remembrance for Kirk, who was assassinated last month in Utah.

Nesbitt criticized the decision, stating, "It is unfortunate the Senate Democrat majority could not even be bothered to take a moment to acknowledge the tragedy that took place in Utah last month and condemn political violence as the nation pauses to remember Charlie Kirk. It is sad how Democrats can turn anything — even common human decency — into political division. We must do better if we are going to move Michigan and our nation forward."

Typically, resolutions recognizing specific days or events are voted on the same day they are introduced. However, Senate Resolution 77 was sent to the Senate Committee on Government Operations, a move often used to delay or table topics indefinitely. This marks only the second time this year a resolution has been referred to this committee. The only other instance involved a Republican-sponsored resolution to commemorate Police Week, which was postponed in favor of a Democrat-sponsored resolution on the same topic.

SR 77 states: "We honor the life, leadership, and legacy of Charlie Kirk, whose steadfast dedication to the Constitution, civil discourse, and Biblical truth inspired a generation to cherish and defend the blessings of liberty" and "we call upon all Americans, regardless of race, party affiliation, or creed, to reject political violence, recommit to respectful debate, uphold American values, and respect one another as fellow Americans."

The National Day of Remembrance coincides with what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday. President Donald Trump has announced plans to posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House event on Tuesday afternoon.