A political commentator has been dismissed from his role at MSNBC after controversial remarks he made in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s fatal shooting at Utah Valley University.
Kirk Shot Dead at University Event
Kirk, 31, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, was killed while addressing an audience of around 3,000 people on Wednesday. Witnesses said he had been speaking on the subject of gun violence when shots rang out. He was later confirmed dead from a gunshot wound to the neck.
The founder of the right-wing youth movement Turning Point USA, Kirk had built a national profile through campus debates, social media, and his vocal opposition to gun control, abortion, Islam and LGBTQ+ rights.
Dowd’s On-Air Comments Spark Backlash
Shortly after Kirk’s death, commentator Matthew Dowd appeared on MSNBC Live with Katy Tur. Asked about the wider environment surrounding political violence, he said Kirk had been “one of the most divisive younger figures” and linked hateful words with violent outcomes.
Dowd said: “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions… that is the environment we are in.”
His remarks drew immediate criticism online, with some accusing him of blaming Kirk for his own death.
MSNBC Confirms Termination
Following the backlash, MSNBC confirmed Dowd’s dismissal. Network president Rebecca Kutler issued an apology on the broadcaster’s official social media account, stating:
“We apologise for his statements, as he has. There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”
Dowd also issued his own apology on Bluesky, saying:
“Let me be clear, I in no way intended for my comments to blame Kirk for this horrendous attack. Let us all come together and condemn violence of any kind.”
Trump and Allies Mourn Kirk
Kirk’s death has prompted tributes across the political spectrum. President Trump, who described him as a “legendary figure,” confirmed his death and vowed a crackdown on political violence.
Kirk, a staunch supporter of Trump’s presidency, spoke at his inauguration, advised on potential White House appointees, and was a close friend of Donald Trump Jr.
Police Continue Manhunt for Shooter
Law enforcement agencies are continuing their search for the gunman. FBI officials said a high-powered bolt-action rifle had been recovered near a wooded area by the campus. Photographs of a person of interest, described as a man wearing a baseball cap, dark sunglasses and a black long-sleeve shirt, were later released.
Two people initially detained were released after questioning, and the main suspect remains at large.
Growing Concerns Over Political Violence
Kirk’s killing has intensified concerns over escalating political violence in the US. This year alone, there have been 356 mass shootings, with more than 100 occurring on school grounds, according to the Mass Shooting Tracker.
Just minutes after Kirk was shot in Utah, a separate school shooting unfolded in Evergreen, Colorado, leaving one dead and two injured. Authorities said the suspected shooter was a 16-year-old boy.
