Maine lawmakers are facing possible censure after one suggested that the deadly mass shooting in Lewiston was a sign of retribution from God over the passage of a law expanding abortion access in the state. Republican state Rep. Michael Lemelin drew parallels between the law and the shooting, insinuating that the tragic event was a consequence of the legislation. Another Republican lawmaker, Shelley Rudnicki, endorsed Lemelin’s remarks, while Democratic lawmakers condemned the comments as lacking empathy and respect for the victims and their families.
During a floor debate, Lemelin stated that God draws a line in the sand and that there are consequences when that line is crossed, implying that the passage of the abortion law had led to the shooting. Assistant House Majority Leader Kristen Cloutier criticized Lemelin and Rudnicki for their lack of empathy and disregard for the community affected by the tragedy. Republican State Rep. Rachel Henderson also condemned the remarks as reprehensible, emphasizing that the Bible does not instruct people to use the word of God as a weapon against others.
The deadly mass shooting in which 18 people were killed occurred on October 25 when a 40-year-old Army Reservist opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston. The gunman was found dead by suicide after a two-day search. The Maine House is set to vote on censuring Lemelin and Rudnicki for their controversial comments. House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross sent letters to the two lawmakers, stating that their remarks were offensive and intentionally harmful to the victims and their families.
Ross emphasized that the behavior displayed by Lemelin and Rudnicki violated the order of decorum of the House Chamber, and they must issue formal apologies to the victims, their families, and the community in order to continue their participation in House activities. Failure to do so would result in the denial of their ability to vote or speak on the House floor. Several Republican lawmakers also criticized the remarks, with Henderson expressing that she did not support the statements made by her colleagues and apologizing to those who were offended by them.
The controversial comments made by Lemelin and Rudnicki sparked outrage among lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, with many denouncing the use of religion to justify or explain tragic events like the mass shooting in Lewiston. The House Speaker called for a vote on censuring the lawmakers and demanded that they take full responsibility for their actions and publicly apologize for their remarks. The incident has highlighted the need for respectful and empathetic discourse in legislative chambers and the importance of showing compassion for victims of tragic events.
