Gavin Newsom slams GOP 'for doing nothing' after Minneapolis school shooting leaves children dead

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized Republicans following a mass shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis.

The attack, carried out on the first day of school, left at least two young children dead and several others injured.

Gavin Newsom calls out GOP for doing 'absolutely nothing' after mass shooting 

The tragedy sparked widespread anger and grief across the country, with leaders at the local, state, and national levels expressing sorrow.

“We cannot even make it through the first week of school without mass shootings,” posted Gavin Newsom to X, adding, “And the @GOP will continue to do absolutely nothing while our kids are being gunned down. This is sick.”

Three law enforcement sources told CBS News the suspected attacker was 23-year-old Robin Westman from suburban Minneapolis. Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the gunman “ultimately took his own life.” Officials confirmed the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Bishop Kevin Kenney, who grew up in the parish, visited Hennepin County Medical Center to support victims. “When I got the news of the mass shooting at Annunciation I thought I’d come down to HCMC to comfort the parents or whoever’s here,” Kenney told NBC News.

“It was horrific. And I grew up in that parish, so it has meaning to me now. It shouldn’t be happening.” He added, “Something’s got to happen here in this city to stop this.”

Minneapolis mayor mocks Trump's response to shooting

President Donald Trump posted, “I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey angrily condemned the attack. “These were Minneapolis families,” Frey said. “These were American families. And the amount of pain that they are suffering right now is extraordinary."

"Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now! These kids were literally praying! It was the first week of school. They were in a Church! These are kids that should be learning with their friends," Frey said. 

"They should be playing on the playground. They should be able to go to school or Church in peace without the fear or risk of violence," he added.

Trump orders all flags flown at half-staff

As a mark of respect, President Trump ordered the US flag to be flown at half-mast.

"President Donald J Trump orders all flags of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds as a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on August 27 in Minneapolis, Minnesota," the White House said in a statement.

House Speaker Mike Johnson wrote, “Our prayers are with the children, families, civilians, law enforcement, and all those impacted by this evil attack.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries posted, “Weapons of war have no place in our neighbourhoods.”

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the country needs to “stop gun violence in America.”

Minnesota Congresswoman Angie Craig said she was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.