Alabama's Democratic Congressman Vote Against Resolution Honoring Charlie Kirk

Staff Writer September 22, 2025

Alabama's two Democratic congressmen, Representative Terri Sewell (D-AL7) of Birmingham and Representative Shomari Figures (D-AL2) of Mobile, voted "present" on a bipartisan House resolution honoring the life of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who was tragically killed during a public event in Utah. The resolution passed with strong bipartisan support, tallying 310 votes in favor and 58 against.

*The Vote Breakdown*

- *Yeas:* 310 votes, with nearly all Republicans and some Democrats voting in favor

- *Nays:* 58 votes, with some Democrats opposing the resolution

- *Present:* 38 votes, with Representatives Sewell and Figures joining other Democrats in abstaining

*Reaction from Alabama Republican Party Chairman*

Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl criticized Representatives Sewell and Figures for their votes, stating that it's "disappointing that the Democratic representatives from Alabama could not come together in honoring the life of Charlie Kirk." Wahl added that failing to condemn the attack "only deepens the divide in this country".

*Reasons for Opposition*

Some Democrats opposed the resolution due to concerns about laudatory language that glossed over or misrepresented Charlie Kirk's controversial statements. Others argued that honoring him would imply support for divisive policies or rhetoric they disagreed with.

*National Response*

The U.S. Senate took a different approach, unanimously approving a resolution establishing October 14, 2025, as a National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk. This move highlights the differing levels of bipartisan support in the two chambers.