Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez spoke on the House floor Friday ahead of a vote to honor slain conservative leader Charlie Kirk, controversially criticizing Kirk’s character and making false claims of anti-Semitism.

Ocasio-Cortez framed a “yes” vote on the memorial resolution as endorsing the segregationist Jim Crow era, saying the resolution “brings great pain to millions of Americans who endured segregation, Jim Crow, and the legacy of bigotry.” She accused Kirk of opposing the Civil Rights Act, defending an assailant of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband, and spreading anti-Semitic rhetoric by accusing Jews of controlling major cultural institutions.

Her remarks sparked backlash, with many pointing out that Kirk was widely seen as a conservative activist who worked to promote civic engagement. Kirk was assassinated last week on the Utah Valley University campus by Tyler Robinson, who has been charged with multiple counts including potentially facing the death penalty. Robinson reportedly told his parents he targeted Kirk because he believed Kirk “spreads too much hate.”

The House voted on a resolution to memorialize Kirk, but 96 Democrats declined to support it. Notably, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and 21 other Democrats walked out of the vote. In contrast, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution naming October 14, 2025—Kirk’s birthday—a “National Day of Remembrance.” Senator Rick Scott, who sponsored the Senate resolution, praised Kirk’s dedication to civic education and debate.

House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that the House will soon pass a resolution honoring Kirk’s legacy and condemning political violence. He emphasized that the resolution calls out political violence in America and honors Kirk as a friend to many in Congress.

Robinson made his initial court appearance Tuesday, with further hearings scheduled. The case continues to draw national attention amid deep partisan divides over political violence and free speech.