Some leftist groups have reacted with celebration to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, particularly on college campuses, while others have taken to the Internet to promote radical ideologies in violent ways.
Since the September 10th assassination in Orem, Utah, discussions in fringe online spaces have depicted a sense of urgency among the far left. Many consider Kirk’s death a disturbing development that has diverted attention from broader issues, galvanized the right, and unwittingly elevated Kirk to a “martyr” status. This event has reportedly given the Trump administration a stronger justification to target a variety of activists across the political spectrum.
One anarchist blog stated, “We don’t advocate for individual acts of assassination, not because powerful figures don’t deserve to be challenged, but because these acts often reinforce the very system we aim to dismantle.” The authors, identifying themselves as part of an “anarchist communist group,” have not responded to media inquiries.
The article emphasized the need for serious commitment to ending political violence, stating, “Ending capitalism is key.” Meanwhile, a phrase like “Heyfascist! Catch!” along with anti-fascist slogans was found etched on a cartridge linked to the shooting, indicating a personal connection to radical ideologies for the shooter, who had become increasingly left-leaning over time.
On September 16th, an Oregon anti-fascist group warned that Kirk’s assassination might destabilize and unify the American right, leading to significant public memorials in his honor. Additionally, they criticized anti-fascist protesters wearing black attire at religious gatherings, labeling them as tactical missteps that could inadvertently fuel narratives of conservative persecution in America.
The post also mentioned that issues like Israel could cause divisions within right-wing circles, suggesting that the left might exploit these rifts. Despite numerous requests for comments, no response was received from the Corvallis Antifascists.
In the wake of the assassination, incidences of backlash have surfaced, with employees being dismissed for appearing to celebrate Kirk’s murder. Some more radical leftists have struggled to persuade their peers that such violence is unjustifiable.
One Reddit user, in the wake of the tragedy, wrote, “We confront our opponents through discussion. The only way to challenge their harmful ideologies is to expose them.” Responses to this included agreement that harming public figures like Kirk could, paradoxically, lead to less harm overall.
In a related development, a social media update showed a large crowd gathering to honor Kirk, with reports indicating that State Farm Stadium reached full capacity for the memorial. Some leftists have reported personal experiences indicating that the assassination has driven people they know further away from the left.
As one user posted, “These events seem to be radicalizing already disenfranchised individuals.” Others have shared their concerns about family members adopting increasingly extremist views in response to Kirk’s assassination.
This situation prompted some leftist Reddit users to suggest that dialogue with right-leaning individuals is essential, even if it contrasts with their views. They argued that understanding the psychology of the opposition is crucial for effective communication.
Following Kirk’s death, the federal government indicated it would focus on groups with leftist ties involved in criminal acts. The day after the assassination, President Trump referred to ANTIFA as a “major terrorist organization.” Some left-wing Reddit users cautioned against making inflammatory statements that could attract federal attention.
Meanwhile, Kirk’s advocacy group reported a spike in interest in establishing new campus branches, receiving tens of thousands of inquiries shortly after his murder. Prominent conservative figures have weighed in, attending memorial services that drew substantial crowds, illustrating Kirk’s significant support.
In reflection, opinions among those engaged in this discourse have shown a blend of condemnation and strategic discussions about how to proceed in a polarized environment. Some have mentioned that Kirk’s assassination might ultimately be counterproductive for the views his assassins were promoting.
