On Monday, Fox News analyst Britt Hume discussed the left’s reaction to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, suggesting it could have long-term political implications. In a special report, he spoke with host Brett Bayer about how the responses online post-Kirk’s death seemed reminiscent of reactions to former President Donald Trump, which could provoke a similar backlash.
Hume commented, “I think the way people are responding to Charlie Kirk largely mirrors how they respond to Donald Trump. Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA, has a following that generally aligns with Trump’s policies, and the negative reactions reflect that. They feel harsh, irrational, and quite malicious.”
He also emphasized that many Americans still cherish basic human decency, especially during tragic times. “Traditionally, people think that showing decency means not speaking ill of the dead. This isn’t a typical American reaction, and it’s not the way most people globally would behave either. Yet, we’ve seen some of that, and it’s very toxic for so many,” he added.
Furthermore, Hume pointed out that Kirk’s outspoken nature could have fostered a “new kind of permit structure” that could inspire others to express their beliefs similarly after his death. “This was foundational to Charlie Kirk’s messaging and lifestyle. It might have initiated a new level of permission for people to live authentically. I’ve heard that church attendance spiked this past Sunday, which could indicate a positive shift sparked by Kirk’s example,” he said.
Authorities have arrested a 22-year-old named Tyler Robinson, who allegedly shot Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University early Friday morning. Various reports indicate that left-wing commentators have celebrated Kirk’s death, while ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith criticized those online who cheered the assassination in a recent SiriusXM show.
Additionally, several individuals have faced job losses for making light of Kirk’s death or for celebrating it on social media. Some Democratic officials have been criticized for their reactions to Kirk in mourning, with others drawing comparisons between his assassination and the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots in an effort to rationalize their sentiments and diminish public sympathy.
