Vice President JD Vance visited Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on Wednesday to pay respects to victims of last week’s deadly mass shooting. He and his wife, Usha, stood quietly outside a statue of the Virgin Mary before entering the church to meet with survivors and families.
Outside, protesters gathered across the street, holding signs reading “protect kids not guns” and a rainbow pride flag featuring transgender colors. Shouts of “protect our kids,” “you’re a coward,” and “do better” greeted Vance as he arrived. Conservative columnist Dustin Grage criticized the demonstration on social media, calling the protest “tone-deaf.”
Authorities identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who carried a rifle, pistol, and shotgun—all legally purchased. The attack, which occurred during a school Mass on August 27, left 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski dead and 21 others injured. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the shooting is being investigated as domestic terrorism with anti-religious motives.
Speaking after the visit, Vance described the experience as both “heartbreaking” and “gratifying.” He said the victims’ families shared personal stories about their children. “I really felt like these parents, in the midst of the worst grief of their entire lives, opened up their hearts and made me part of it,” he said.
