Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) drew attention during a Senate discussion on President Donald Trump’s tariff policies after using language that some have questioned in light of the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

During remarks on the Senate floor, Hirono said that small businesses were “taking it in the neck” as a result of the administration’s tariff agenda.

The phrasing came just over a week after Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

Kirk was struck in the neck during the attack, which occurred as he answered a question about transgender shooters.

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Kirk, 31, had been one of the most prominent young conservative figures in the country, building Turning Point USA into a national organization with a large presence on college campuses.

His death has sparked widespread reactions from political leaders, with memorials and tributes taking place across the United States.

Hirono’s comments came as the Senate debated the effects of Trump’s tariffs on American businesses.

She argued that small business owners were disproportionately affected by ongoing trade disputes and tariffs on imported goods.

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“For the millions of small businesses in our country who are taking it in the neck with these tariffs,” Hirono said during the debate.

This disgraceful comment is shocking even by your own low standards, @MazieHirono.Fair trade isn’t the problem - your calculated, violent rhetoric is.It’s evil and beneath the office. pic.twitter.com/KU3iG15vOS

— Kelly Loeffler (@SBA_Kelly) September 18, 2025

The remark was not expanded upon further by the senator, and she continued her comments focused on economic concerns.

However, the timing and specific wording of the statement drew criticism from some who pointed to its overlap with the circumstances of Kirk’s assassination.

Kirk’s death has been a central topic on Capitol Hill since the shooting.

Lawmakers have held moments of silence in his honor, and both chambers of Congress have seen debates over increased security measures for public officials and political activists.

Federal authorities continue to investigate the incident, while additional safety protocols are being implemented at events featuring high-profile political figures.

President Trump, speaking shortly after the shooting, praised Kirk’s work as an activist and promised federal resources to investigate and prosecute the case.

Vice President J.D. Vance and Attorney General Pam Bondi have also been active in discussions about strengthening protections for public figures following the attack.

The Senate’s tariff debate, where Hirono made her comments, is part of a broader legislative push by the administration to defend its trade agenda.

The Trump administration has argued that tariffs are necessary to protect American industries and workers, while opponents claim the policies place added burdens on consumers and small businesses.

Hirono has been an outspoken critic of the administration on a range of issues, including tariffs, immigration policy, and judicial appointments.

Her comment, however, comes at a moment of heightened national sensitivity given the recent assassination of Kirk.

The broader debate on tariffs is expected to continue in the Senate in the coming weeks as lawmakers consider new trade measures and their impact on both large industries and smaller enterprises.

At the same time, the fallout from Kirk’s death remains an ongoing subject in Washington, where political leaders continue to reflect on the risks faced by public figures and the need for enhanced security at political events.

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