An MSNBC political commentator has been fired following remarks deemed inappropriate and insensitive regarding the shooting incident involving right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. Matthew Dowd faced backlash for his comments during a live television discussion about Kirk’s tragic death, leading the network to issue a formal apology and subsequently dismiss him. MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler stated, “During our coverage of the Charlie Kirk shooting, Matthew Dowd made remarks that were deemed inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable. We apologize for his statements, as has he. There is no room for violence in America, whether political or otherwise.”
Dowd, a former chief strategist for George W. Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign, suggested that one of Kirk’s supporters may have accidentally fired the fatal shot. He mentioned, “We don’t have all the details yet. We’re unsure if this was a supporter firing a celebratory shot or… So we are uncertain about this.” Dowd also criticized Kirk, labeling him as a divisive figure known for promoting hateful rhetoric targeting specific groups. He emphasized, “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions… That’s the unfortunate environment we’re in.”
In response to a clip from the broadcast, criticism arose from individuals denouncing the lack of empathy shown towards Kirk. Dowd later issued an apology on Blue Sky, expressing regret for his tone and words, clarifying that he did not intend to blame Kirk for the tragic event, and urging unity in condemning all forms of violence.
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot in the neck while addressing a crowd at a rally organized by Turning Point USA, the non-profit organization he founded. The 31-year-old, a known conservative activist and close associate of US President Donald Trump, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being rushed to the hospital. President Trump paid tribute to Kirk as “a martyr for truth and freedom” in a video message from the Oval Office.
President Trump criticized the demonization of political adversaries and attributed the assassination of Kirk to the rhetoric of the radical left. However, authorities have not identified a suspect, and no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. MSNBC has been contacted for comment by the Mirror.
