Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley faced ridicule after announcing a prayer and fasting gathering at the Capitol following Republican midterm losses. He called the election results “shocking and historic” and urged Christians to seek God’s guidance. Critics mocked the one-hour gathering, questioning his response to the election setback.
In a post on X, Hawley described Tuesday’s results as an extraordinary political development requiring a religious response. “It calls for a historic response,” he wrote before urging Christians to gather and pray for the nation. He then announced plans to host the gathering on Tuesday, December 15, from noon to 1 p.m.
The senator invited participants to meet him at the Capitol, closing his post with, “Meet me there!” He did not outline any legislative proposals or other measures to address the election losses.
Josh Hawley Faces Backlash Over Capitol Prayer and Fasting Plan
Hawley’s announcement sparked criticism over the proposed gathering, with some questioning its purpose and others challenging Republican priorities.
One commenter questioned his response to the election losses, asking, “What stage of grief is that?”
Others mocked the duration of the planned fast. One response stated, “Fasting for one hour is bold. That will teach them.”
The discussion also turned to Americans struggling with food costs. Another person wrote, “Americans are already going without meals because groceries have become unaffordable. They’re not fasting by choice, Josh. They’re trying to survive.”
A separate commenter questioned whether Republican lawmakers would address voters’ concerns, writing, “Prayer is good. But also hard work and representing your constituents. Republicans have failed miserably.”
The choice of venue also drew criticism, with one person referencing the Capitol, writing, “The last time you ‘hosted’ a gathering at the Capitol, it didn’t turn out so well.”
Meanwhile, another questioned whether the gathering would include Christians outside the Republican Party, stating, “If you want this to be a unifying event, I suggest you invite Christians across the political spectrum, not just Republicans.”
It remains unclear who will join Hawley at the Capitol. His announcement did not identify other participating lawmakers or organizations.
