Democrat Strategist Reflects on Rhetoric Following Assassination

During a “morning meeting” on Monday, former Democratic strategist Dan Trenine suggested that the party should reconsider its harsh labeling of President Donald Trump as a “fascist” after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA).

Kamala Harris’ former campaign manager has labeled Trump a “fascist” in the context of his 2024 campaign, while Texas House Rep. Jasmine Crockett has referred to him as “Hitler” on multiple occasions, even after Kirk’s death on Wednesday. Trenine commented on a show, expressing concern that such incendiary language could lead to violence and emphasized the need to acknowledge that.

“The party really shouldn’t be calling Trump a fascist or comparing him to Hitler. For one, it’s just not good politics. And frankly, it isn’t true, right?” Trenine stated. He indicated that the party should respond promptly to troubling events, saying, “This is unacceptable.” He hopes that someone stepping into the limelight for the 2028 election might clarify this stance.

Trenine praised independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders for his effective condemnation of political violence related to the assassination. Still, he stressed that the party must do more. “The next step for some of these leaders would be to say, ‘I was wrong’… We need to lower the temperature and play our part by denouncing this.” He added, “Win in the market of ideas, win at the ballot box,” warning that extreme rhetoric can prompt irrational reactions from individuals.

Crockett defended her use of the term “aspiring Hitler” during a segment on the “Breakfast Club,” attributing it to Trump’s rhetoric but asserting that it doesn’t necessarily incite violence.

Interestingly, Trump has survived two assassination attempts during his 2024 campaign while participating in various public events.

Kirk, who was assassinated while engaging with students at a Utah Valley University event, had spoken on civil discourse shortly before his death. Utah Governor Spencer Cox mentioned that authorities found anti-fascist messages related to ammunition near the site of the assassination, underscoring the charged atmosphere surrounding current political conversations.