US President Donald Trump came under fire on social media after making light of Charlie Kirk’s assassination during an interview with Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum. Kirk, a right-wing activist and outspoken Trump ally, was tragically shot while speaking at Utah Valley University at just 31 years old, leaving behind his wife Erika Frantzve and two children.
During the interview, MacCallum referenced Kirk’s belief that there was no such thing as hate speech. Trump interjected, “Yeah, he might not be saying that now.” This comment was widely deemed insensitive and “worse” than Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial remarks that led to his show’s suspension.
Kirk was known for his extreme political views, often sparking heated debate. Despite this, many found Trump’s tone dismissive of Kirk’s death, especially given his prior praises and his plan to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
Social media users criticized Trump for seeming detached from the gravity of the murder, contrasting his response unfavorably with the level of empathy expected after such a tragedy.
Kirk’s memorial service is scheduled for September 21 at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, with many officials, including Trump, expected to attend.
