House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) offered a message of faith and moral resolve this week as Americans confront a series of heartbreaking events that have shaken communities at home and abroad.
Speaking to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on Monday, Johnson addressed multiple tragedies that unfolded over the weekend, including deadly shootings on a college campus, violence overseas, and a devastating family loss that has drawn national attention.
Johnson said he learned earlier in the day about the deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, calling the incident an “unspeakable family tragedy” and a sobering reminder of the violence affecting society.
Authorities have confirmed the couple was found deceased in their home, and their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was taken into custody as investigators continue to determine the circumstances. Johnson offered prayers for the family and urged patience as law enforcement works through the case.
In moments of grief and uncertainty, the Speaker said he turns to Scripture for guidance and comfort. He referenced Psalm 34, which reminds believers that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Johnson said the passage speaks to Americans searching for hope during painful times.
The Speaker also commented on a string of troubling headlines from across the globe. He referenced the deadly attack in Australia, where Jewish young people gathered to celebrate Hanukkah were targeted at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. Johnson said the incident was a stark reminder of rising antisemitism and the importance of standing against hatred.
Domestically, Johnson addressed the shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where two people were killed and several others wounded during final exams. Police initially detained a person of interest but later released him as the investigation took a different direction.
Johnson also highlighted the loss of American lives overseas, pointing to an attack near Palmyra in Syria. According to the U.S. military, two American service members and a civilian interpreter were killed, with additional U.S. personnel injured in the assault.
As the nation approaches a season traditionally centered on faith, family, and peace, Johnson urged Americans to respond to evil with clarity and resolve rather than despair.
“We see evil all around us,” Johnson said. With Hanukkah underway and Christmas approaching, he encouraged the country to “appeal to our better angels” and to elevate voices that promote unity, compassion, and moral strength.
For many conservatives, Johnson’s remarks reinforced a familiar principle: protecting public safety is essential, but cultural and spiritual resilience matter just as much. In the face of violence abroad, instability at home, and personal tragedy, Johnson’s message was clear — America must lean on its foundational values, reject the normalization of violence, and remain grounded in faith and responsibility.