MSNBC political analyst Matthew Dowd has broken his silence following his firing for making controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk after the conservative commentator’s tragic assassination.
Kirk, the 31-year-old director of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University on September 11, as a single bullet struck him in the neck. The attack sent shockwaves through the nation, with tributes pouring in for the late political figure, including one from President Donald Trump, who described Kirk as a “very good friend.”
However, Dowd found himself in hot water for comments he made about Kirk’s role in the political climate. On MSNBC, Dowd referred to Kirk as “one of the most divisive, especially divisive younger figures,” accusing him of “constantly pushing hate speech” aimed at specific groups.
These statements sparked outrage, with many viewers interpreting them as suggesting that individuals like Kirk deserved to be gunned down for their political views. MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler issued a statement condemning Dowd’s remarks as “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable.”
Dowd’s Apology
In response to the backlash, Dowd issued a public apology on BlueSky, expressing his condolences for Kirk’s family. He clarified that he never intended to blame Kirk for the attack.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Charlie Kirk,” Dowd wrote. “On an earlier appearance on MSNBC I was asked a question on the environment we are in. I apologize for my tone and words. Let me be clear, I in no way intended for my comments to blame Kirk for this horrendous attack.”
Dowd also emphasized that the environment of divisiveness and hate in the country must be addressed, stating, “Let us all come together and condemn violence of any kind.”
A source close to the network confirmed Dowd had been fired after making comments about Kirk (Heidi Gutman/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
Trump’s Response
Trump, a longtime ally of Kirk, responded to the tragic news with a heartfelt tribute, calling Kirk a “legendary” figure who had a profound impact on the youth of America. Trump’s statement described Kirk as a “martyr for truth and freedom” and expressed his deep condolences to Kirk’s family.
In honor of Kirk, Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half mast until Sunday evening.
The Fallout
The incident has sparked an ongoing conversation about the role of divisive rhetoric in political discourse and the impact it can have on real-world violence. Dowd’s apology and the MSNBC’s condemnation highlight the sensitivity surrounding political commentary in the wake of such tragedies.
Trump and Kirk were close allies (Mark Wilson/Getty Images
As the investigation into Kirk’s death continues, the nation remains in mourning, reflecting on the devastating loss of a figure who was admired by many, even amidst the political divide.
Featured Image Credit: Getty Images/ The Salt Lake Tribune
