GOP politicians backed by conservative media figures are seeking to turn the tables on “thoughts and prayers” after mass shootings, arguing that dismissing prayer minimizes the importance and comfort many find in religious faith at times of tragedy and crisis.

The idea of offering “thoughts and prayers” after a mass shooting has been a point of criticism or even ridicule in some quarters as mass shootings at schools and other public places become a constant, dark part of American life.

Democrats and liberal pundits in particular have seen expressions of thoughts and prayers, particularly coming from the GOP and prominent commentators on the right, as an empty gesture when uncoupled with specific actions on gun control to prevent mass shootings.

Those arguments were reignited this week a

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