Charlie Kirk’s assassination shattered me; not for his politics, but for the reminder that every voice risks death now, and my family’s terror is suddenly unbearable.
I’m more convinced every minute that Charlie Kirk was sacrificed by the Powers That Be to be the modern-day Horst Wessel. This is the excuse they want to come after everyone who opposes the agenda - and hey, nobody is talking about Epstein today!
As much as I tell myself that it would be truly evil for “them” to sacrifice one of their own, I keep coming back to the idea that this was done to make bigger headlines than all the other dreadful things that get thrown at us every day. Yes, I my sympathies go out to Kirk’s family, and no-one deserves to be shot, but I believe “they” will stop at nothing to create more chaos and stir up more hatred and division.
You are not alone for sure. My good buddy from high school and I were talking about this same thing and both of us feeling awful for even thinking that but neither of us would be surprised. I haven’t turned anything on since I heard they had video of the shooter and it was a young person.
I just spent the evening of 9/11 reading through all the 320+ comments posted as of 7:00 PM. The first fifth of them are pretty much off the wall, speculative, not very responsive to Michael's question of us. A lot of the first bunch (and a few thereafter) are just plain fanciful, absent very much grounding in anything that could be known at this early date. I came very close not to going further than that first bunch. Baldly, they came across to me as off the point, idle, close to irresponsible expectation. But I kept going and I'm glad I did
But then the further on as "the tub got filled to the point of being warm enough and deep enough to get into," the answer for Michael, I believe, should prove deeply gratifying. He asked for advice and he got a lot. Excepting only a tiny handful of plainly nasty takes which only succeed in labeling their drafters as ignorant of the huge transition Cohen underwent, from "then" to "now," the overwhelming message of this warm and diverse set of assessments and offers of advice and counsel is the message of appreciation for his contributions to the American polity and the current authoritarian crisis, the hope that they will continue, and, most importantly, the sense of trust that he can and will, in fact, make a decision that is right for both him and his family. That's my sense and I post this assessment to encourage readers to not give up before they get past the idle speculation to the rendering of the advice that I believe will ground his decision and allow him to craft it into the right one. Thanks for asking, Michael. God speed!
I agree with you. I truly think Trump was behind this. He was too quick to lower the flag. He was too quick to issue his denouncement against democrats. He has now called open season on democrats. I truly fear for Gavin Newsom, Bernie Sanders, AOC, Elizabeth Warren. Remember also that the high school shooting victims have not been talked about either. So what do we do? Do we run and hide or do we keep holding our heads up for the truth? Me - I am going to keep praying and helping my community.
I agree, it's sad, that we have been driven to thinking like that, and I'm afraid for Michael and Ben, and all the brave, relentless people out there who risk their lives to try and keep our country safe from trump and his wealthy buddies.
The timing of his death is very suspicious due to the pressure of the Epstein Files. Of course, we have no evidence to conclude why he was killed, and by whom.
Don't count on ever learning "by whom." The hit man is long gone. That young man in the blurry surveillance footage is probably one of the several thousand college students on campus for the event (or just classes) yesterday. This was the work of a trained sniper who got away.
Does anyone outside of the cult believe we're ever going to see an honest report after a thorough investigation by Patel's FBI? The "discovery" of an intact possible murder weapon nearby after successful removal of it from the campus just kicked my uncomfortable musings yesterday about a possible conspiracy to a whole new level of probability. Having all kinds of skeptical thoughts that it was a transgender antifa commando...
This is becoming one of those tangled webs in which the more we learn, the less we know. It sure looks carefully planned and the visceral responses pre-programmed.
It's said that this wasn't an assassination, because KIrk wasn't elected.
It's said that, "this isn't us."
Martin Luther KIng Jr., Robert F Kennedy, Medgar Evers, William Lewis Moore, Emmet Lewis Till, Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson and Cynthia Wesley, Rev James Reeb, Viola Gregg Liuzzo...
What is most galling is how the hireling media immediately jumped on the bandwagon about what an upstanding family man and great contributor to society was this bigoted rabble-rouser. And we're supposed to fly the flag at half-staff for this advocate for gun violence? When the Frump refused to fly it in tribute to a real hero and patriot, John McCain? I suggest we fly all American flags upside down as a distress signal.
One line of evidence that is undeniable is that was one hell of a shot that coukd only have been done by a well trained sniper or someone who should play the lotto.
The writing is on the wall...DUMP steered this and had someone sacrificed to do just that...and the thing is, Kirk probably didn't see this coming, but the headlines sure make him appear to be a martyr
I don’t think Trump is smart enough to have engineered the thing but it certainly would appeal to him. It would take out two problems with one bullet. Kirk was pushing for the Epstein files to be released and he makes a handy martyr for the cause as well as a distraction. Sniper is more likely to be a navy seal than a college student.
you're right, he's not smart enough to "engineer" this, MAGA seems to have this vision that he's their "god"...and from other platforms, DUMP told Kirk to cool it, pipe down as far as the E-Files are concerned, then this happens...perfect set up...for a martyr
He's not satan. But he might be a tool of the antichrist, according to what my 3rd grade nun teacher taught 6 decades ago. This stuck with me as she slapped the back of my hand with a wooden ruler for asking a question she said was impertinent. She said there will be a few people who will become the antichrist's tools, in the future. You must not believe them, for they will lead you to hell. And you will burn in hell forever.
Like we got all the facts from the Butler shooting? Comments from the hospital trump was supposedly treated at? Details about the shooter and his family?
Trump not being transparent about his health is NORMAL for him. And there were copious articles about Matthew Crooks and his family at the time. Go search the NY Times. I did. It's all there.
it's not a game...he wants to eliminate all races other than the white supremacists!!! he will go to the lowest levels of hell to push his agenda and sacrifice whoever he needs to. Now he has the So. Korean president currently pissed off cuz of dumps revolting chicago ice agents/terrorists arresting the Koreans in chicago to deport. ok, now what is that going to cause....shall we just predict???
I agree all the facts are not in , but we do have some facts. The shooter was a trained marksman. Laura Loomer has been publicly criticizing Kirk. Trump was unhappy with Kirks support of releasing the Epstein files. Trump has been trying to distract public attention from the Epstein files.
None of those are facts that prove the blossoming conspiracy theory. And define “trained marksman”. I don't know why so many people suddenly think someone needs to be a Mission Impossible member or they can't hit the broadside of a barn. The guy knows how to use a scope sighted rifle, as do many gun enthusiasts. It's not that difficult a skill to learn with some practice.
This was a professional "hit." Nobody but a highly trained sharpshooter could be that accurate at 400+ feet (142 yards). He got away, perhaps with the help of others. There was writing on the remaining ammo about trans and antifascist ideology. Sounds like someone wanted to leave a message (most assassins do not mark their cartridges).
Was stuck in traffic on the way home this evening, and for some reason found myself thinking that I had landed on why Trump hates trans people so much. He probably tried to rape a trans woman and got the shock of his life.
Let’s hope that Trump and his administration are NOT behind Kirk’s death. We all would be in grave danger if he was. Getting away with one murder would make him much more likely to adopt Putin’s approach to dispatching political rivals. As his niece titled her book, Enough is Never Enough, having a free hand in, literally, killing political descent to feed into his lust for power, Trump would resort to that again and again because one killing would not be enough for him.
I read an account from a former Marine sharpshooter that opined that no random killer could have executed such a shot from 200 yards without sharpshooter experience, and the shooting was a staged event that went terribly wrong, a la the person killed at the alleged attempt on Trump's life. Video footage shows that the sniper's bullet possibly ricocheted off the intended target - Kirk's bulletproof vest - and was deflected into his neck. Rotten luck for a Christo-Nazi influencer, but there we are.
Kirk espoused the idea that gun deaths are a necessary evil to keep the 2A so we can preserve our god given rights. With a mindset like that, he would probably have been a willing martyr…
I agree. Something ain’t right. The following is a copy of my initial response to this post-
Who’s Charlie Kirk?
Today is the anniversary of 9/11, a day of infamy when thousands of innocent people lost their lives. And thousands of others who were either in the towers or in proximity, are forever haunted by the tragic events of that day. And Americans everywhere who witnessed the events live on TV will never ever forget where we were and the immediate impact it had on us.
We didn’t know the WHY yet, but we instinctively knew that something monumental happened and it shattered our hearts, our innocence, and perhaps our naïve sense of impenetrability. (The assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK also left many of us in a collective state of shock and despair that’s held firmly in our hearts, in our bones and refined us in incalculable ways.)
So when trump immediately blamed the “radical left” for Kirk’s “assassination”, then declared that all American flags be flown at half staff and signed the following PROCLAMATION- I suddenly, instinctively felt that there was potentially a whole helluva lot more to this story than what meets the eye. (Link below)
Not only did trump not mention 9/11, but he actually superseded the 9/11 with a proclamation to honor Charlie Kirk. With excessive DRAMA. WHY?
Well, we can all certainly conjure up a wide variety of reasons, and we’d likely all be right.
(Of coarse I would never condone violence. In fact I’m a pacifist to my core. I don’t own a gun and never will. Which doesn’t automatically mean that I won’t speak my mind. And in the full context of what’s happening in our country and around the globe right now, again, I ask WHO’S CHARLIE KIRK?)
But I actually wondered whether he would also order that Kirk lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., allowing the public to pay their respects. And of course, he would give the eulogy. And then I also wondered whether trump would then order that he be buried in Arlington cemetery Section 60, with full military honors and a 21-gun salute!
(Could he actually DO that? Well from what we’ve witnessed over the last 9 months, the answer is YES! Who’s going to stop him? And maybe he would even declare 9/11 as a national holiday on behalf of Charlie Kirk! Okay I admit to having a wild imagination, but, js…)
You are 100% correct...I'll be damned that a white supremist be laid to rest in ARLINGTON CEMETARY...that is for the REAL people that FOUGHT for this country...Kirk was a White Nationalist, NOT a Patriot...you're thoughts are NOT a wild imagination!
Before I even read your post, I thought to myself..."WAIT...what day is this????" This is 9/11! I was outside and thought to myself...WHY are we discussing CK when we should be discussing the worst disaster in US History? Everyone, including myself, became so consumed with this BULLSHIT that we didn't bring to light the past from 24yrs ago...I'm ashamed of myself for bringing attention to someone that doesn't give a shit about our values, nor deserved OUR time... someone that DUMP wanted us to talk about...CK is someone who does NOT deserve the attention of the American people because of what he stood for...yes, the assassination was wrong, but his principles and values are even MORE WRONG...thank you for reminding us what's MORE important...CK is a white suppremist/nationalist...there was nothing Patriotic about him...that's who CK was.
Yes. I agree wholeheartedly. Which is exactly why I asked the stupid, rhetorical question. Because it’s so absurd, so obscene. So nonsensical. So friggin’ twisted! Like a scene out of SNL. We’re in the Twilight Zone! And I’ll be damned if I’m going to pretend to be grieving for CK even for one damned nanosecond!
That's exactly right, I think it was an organized assassination. I plea with the MT to keep speaking on the Epstein files because they needed another distraction.
Michael- take a deep breath. There hasn't been a safe space to publicly speak out for years and it's just hitting home for you and reinforcing your family's fears. Be with your family and listen to them. Let them take a deep breath. Let them be afraid. Let them see that you are present. Let them see that they are the most important thing in the world to you. There will be other elections but there will never be another family.
There is a reason that Mitt Romney was paying $5000 per week for his families security, and it wasn’t from the liberals, radical leftists, marxists, democrats, or lgbtq people.
Very well stated, Janet. I think that's a wise suggestion. I've learned to honor hesitation and un-ease when my tendency is to make things happen. You're doing plenty as is, Michael. Your health and well-being matter. You lamented that you're rebuilding your life, still healing. Take the time you need, as much as you need. Running for office seems a pressure you don't need right now. Go gently and breathe. Selfishly, we need your voice here. Much love from your Meidas family!
Charlie Kirk was not just a politician, he made his money humiliating people in public at their expense, made it acceptable to be racist , sexist and anti semitic.
My comment was a comparison of their behavioral ways....both the same with their thinking and revolting comments. I have no idea what their "buddy" relationship was.
This is from a post: "For years Charlie Kirk and Nick Fuentes were after the same audience: young males on the far right. But what you might not know is that Nick Fuentes and his "Groypers" have hated Charlie Kirk for a long time, because he wasn't far right enough for them. Groypers have been starting trouble at Charlie Kirk appearances for many years. I’d guess there’s a stronger chance the shooter was a Fuentes follower than a leftist, as only 14% of voters in the area are registered Democrats, but let's wait for the facts to come out."
Wow interesting article. To be honest, I haven't really followed these awful people. My sons know more about it. Fuentes is plain evil as his friends. I don't believe a dem was responsible, more likely a paid assassin per drumpf as a cover up.
Exactly. Which is why I posted the following comment as my initial response to Michael’s post -
I agree. Something ain’t right. The following is a copy of my initial response to this post-
Who’s Charlie Kirk?
Today is the anniversary of 9/11, a day of infamy when thousands of innocent people lost their lives. And thousands of others who were either in the towers or in proximity, are forever haunted by the tragic events of that day. And Americans everywhere who witnessed the events live on TV will never ever forget where we were and the immediate impact it had on us.
We didn’t know the WHY yet, but we instinctively knew that something monumental happened and it shattered our hearts, our innocence, and perhaps our naïve sense of impenetrability. (The assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK also left many of us in a collective state of shock and despair that’s held firmly in our hearts, in our bones and redefined us in incalculable ways.)
So when trump immediately blamed the “radical left” for Kirk’s “assassination”, then declared that all American flags be flown at half staff and signed the following PROCLAMATION- I suddenly, instinctively felt that there was potentially a whole helluva lot more to this story than what meets the eye. (Link below 1.)
Not only did trump not mention 9/11, but he actually superseded the 9/11 tragedy with a proclamation to honor Charlie Kirk!?!?! With excessive DRAMA. WHY? How does that makes sense?
Well, we can all certainly conjure up a wide variety of reasons, and we’d likely all be right.
(Of coarse I would never condone violence. In fact I’m a pacifist to my core. I don’t own a gun and I never will. And I’ve always been registered as an independent. Which doesn’t automatically mean that I won’t speak my mind. And in the full context of what’s happening in our country and around the globe right now, again, I ask WHO’S CHARLIE KIRK?)
But I actually wondered whether he would also order that Kirk lie in state in the
U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., allowing the public to pay their respects. And of course, he would give the eulogy. And then I also wondered whether trump would then order that he be buried in Arlington cemetery Section 60, with full military honors and a 21-gun salute!
(Could he actually DO that? Well from what we’ve witnessed over the last 9 months, the answer is YES! Who’s going to stop him? And maybe he would even declare 9/11 as a national holiday on behalf of Charlie Kirk! Okay I admit to having a wild imagination, but, js…)
Next question - Who shot Charlie Kirk and more importantly, WHY?
That's important. It gets directly at the nub of how difficult it is to support pluralistic democracy.
We have to respect the rights of people like Kirk to do exactly what Nicholas identified; so long as he doesn't break laws. At the same time we have to do everything in our power to counter the tendency to absorb those beliefs (people want to find handy scapegoats for all their disappointments).
I'm sad and angry about his assassination. Why? Because I don't think we should be killing each other. But doesn't mean I condone his snakeoil sales job.
Charlie Kirk was "speaking out" and confronting lies, etc? Please. Most of his rhetoric involved spreading falsehoods and fear.
For example, Kirk’s very last words promoted the lie that transgender people are responsible for “Too many” of the mass shootings of the past decade.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, transgender shooters account for about 0.11 % of the 3,561 mass shootings since 2016.
Kirk’s statement – in line with his Turning Point USA nonprofit – was part of his strategy of sowing and exploiting fear that white Christian supremacy is under attack by immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community and civil rights activists.
In December of 2023, at his America Fest convention, Kirk said “We made a huge mistake when we passed the Civil Rights Act in the 1960s.”
As William Turton wrote in Wired, Jan 12, 2024, quoting Nick Surgey, executive director of watchdog group Documented, “This is not dog-whistle politics, it's blatant and intended to cause outrage. That's really the point.”
Kirk’s politics called upon and stoked fears, a tactic that has indeed stood the test of time in garnering support. It would be offensive to name the equally unethical men in recent and ancient history who have done the same.
I think you’re missing his point. No one in this comment section thinks Charlie Kirk was confronting lies- he was spewing them. But the point of free speech is that he should be able to spew his lies and not be shot. I’m not condoning him, defending him- neither is Michael. Charlie and others spewing lies are indefensible. But if Charlie can get shot and we all don’t speak out — then so can Michael. So can AOC. And any others we happen to agree with.
The author writes, "Charlie was doing exactly what I do—what so many of us do. He went into schools, communities, and town halls. He stood in front of people, some who loved him, some who hated him, and he tried to persuade them, to teach them, to engage them. He put himself in the arena. Isn’t that what I’ve been talking to you about all along? The obligation to show up, to confront the lies, to try and change minds? And yet, that same commitment to showing up is what got him killed."
The author aligns himself with Kirk as someone who had an "obligation to show up, to confront the lies..." I'm not missing the author's point. If Kirk was someone who went to public meetings as some kind of fearless messenger, confronting lies, then truth really is on its head today. Kirk was a lie-mongerer. When lies have concrete, destructive effects on others (as one can argue that Kirk's lies did and do), then that's called slander, not free speech, and is not legal. The esteemed Southern Poverty Law Center would support this, and in fact listed Kirk and his TPUSA among ultra hard right white supremacy groups.
Where I agree that there is some concern far more now than there was before Charlie Kirk got shot, it's also something that seems all too convenient for what's going on currently. Notice how there's no talk or not as much of it about that same files being released or the fact that we have a sitting president and many others in Congress that participated in Jeffrey Epstein's Island crimes against little girls. It absolutely is terrifying, but let's not forget who started this rhetoric with the hate and Division of this country. It wasn't Democrats it was the Republicans and that POS in the white house. It was every single person that made excuses for this Behavior, that supported this man and the people that surround him, it's all the people that have spread lies and conspiracy theories and done their part to contribute to what's going on now. People can only take so much before they break and it'll be interesting to see what the motive was behind this shooters crime. It'll be interesting to see what is said and maybe we'll be able to truly understand what was going on there. There's so much going on and so much Darkness all of the time from day to day that this is a fear that it will keep being repeated and that's scary, however we can't give up or we lose everything. We have to fight back and we can't stop or we lose everything. Thinking about how we fight back that will make an impact and matter is a hard thing to figure out. I believe that there needs to be more than just peaceful protesting or being loud, those things need to continue but I feel like there needs to be more of a push we're not making as much headway as we need to in my opinion. Thank you for speaking up and being a voice that is helping to fight back and making us aware of certain things going on that maybe we wouldn't otherwise be aware of, but this is not a time to give in to fear. I get it you want to be there for your family your kids and your wife and everyone involved in your family are scared for you, but if we don't have people like you speaking up and speaking for us fighting for us, then who do we have? Ultimately it's your decision whether you run for office or not, I hope that you consider it but ultimately that's your choice and I think we all understand if you don't but I hope that you keep doing this and you'll stay in the fight with us for sure.we cannot let thwm win. We cannot let this incident be the downfall. We cannot let them blame us and take us down.
Yes. We should be able to, but there are consequences to stirring up hateful sentiments. Words DO matter! Why did Charlie think he could spout hateful messages without it coming home to roost? Was he so naive that he didn’t understand how this works?
And I hear more of it today from others who should know better, including our president.
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can get you killed.
A SCHOOL SHOOTING occurred on March 27, 2023, killing 3 children and three adults.
This was Kirk’s response to that massacre when he spoke on April 5, 2023: "I THINK IT'S WORTH IT. I think it's worth to have a cost of, UNFORTUNATELY, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our OTHER God-given rights."
Would he say it was worth it now? Don't know...But I'm pretty sure he was absolutely stunned when he met his Maker, and couldn't belittle God into believing his lies.
Murder (it was a murder, not an assassination) is illegal. Murderers are punished for committing that crime. But Charlie Kirk was an asshole. He'll be missed only by those who hate all the groups he hated - people of color, strong women, transgender people, nonChistians, immigrants, liberals, etc.
He was no better than Alex Jones. Unlike most other INNOCENT victims of gun violence, he helped CREATE the violent, hate-filled hellscape that we all are forced to live in BECAUSE of people like him. It ironically took his life. He is no martyr. He became a millionaire by spewing hate and misinformation. He supported and helped elect a rapist who constantly stokes violence and division. Ironically, if the people he vilified had their way, his murder WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED because violent hate speech would not be tolerated, guns would be tightly controlled, the President would not send out memes about going to war with a US city!
You commend Charlie Kirk for getting out there, trying to persuade people that his beliefs are correct when it’s his very beliefs that created the environment that killed him. He fervently wished harm on anyone who didn’t look like him but I’m supposed to take time out of my day to mourn? You are actively helping to sanitize this man’s legacy - that’s the real danger you should be concerned about. Maybe you should think about why you feel compelled to do so.
No, I don’t think anyone is pressuring you to take time to mourn. The call, I think, is to consider how we must stand to protect free speech, democracy, etc etc. To remember that while we disagree with everything Charlie Kirk said and did, if he is shot and we don’t protest— there goes any hope of others not being shot, too. We have to keep working for EVERYONE to be safe to speak, to share, etc.
The author is using Kirk's death in order to wrap himself in righteousness, and to get Substack readers, and, apparently, to run for public office! Hell no.
Michael, everyone deserves to take a mental health break, to step away for a while. If that's what you need to do, do it. Nobody will blame you for taking some time for self and family care. We appreciate all you do, but no one has to carry the burden alone. Let some time go by, let the dust settle. Don't make any decisions when things are still raw and everyone is in a defensive crouch. Know that whatever you decide, it's OK. We have your back. Stay safe and keep your family close.
I'm confused. It wasn't that long ago that democrats were assassinated? Why is it now, when a far right/white supremist gets killed, that's too far?when it's a good looking white guy? What is it that makes this singular killing more important that the school shooting that occurred the same day and killed more kids?
I honestly don't understand what makes _this_ moment the flash point?
Hi Michael. Your article had me crying, but that’s me. My heart is aching for your family, there is so much love there. I can truly understand their fear, and the emotional effect it has on you. I can also truly understand your need to continue to bring the fight, to educate, and to reach out in substantial ways. What a terrible dilemma. Please take the time that you need to get all this sorted. No decisions have to be made today.
And lastly, I have learned so much from your articles, your conversations with Ben, and others. I have always felt more energized after reading or watching. I truly appreciate everything you do. Take care of yourself. 🇨🇦🇨🇦
WTH? Someone doesn’t have to live next to you to be considered neighbor. We are all neighbors to each other. It’s a small world now with instant virtual group discussions. Just like talking to a neighbor across your fence. 🧐🤷♂️
Dale Blair. Thank you for this. I have been thinking about this ‘mornos’ (figured out he meant morons) response. Yes, my comments were emotionally driven, considering everything that has happened in the past couple days. It’s also called empathy, something this asshole doesn’t understand. I appreciate your response and support. It means a lot.
Human Decency, Compassion, and Empathy Is What Binds Us
If there is anything that comes out of Cheeto’s Nazi America is that for once in a long while WE the People are challenged to be and say who WE are WE are the citizens of a country that protect human decency, compassion, and empathy WE stand for our fellow human beings whether they are immigrants or not WE speak out when we see our fellow human beings being hurt or when they are looked at condescendingly
And WE the People stand up against a Nazi SCOTUS and all Nazis who want to look the other way and demand that WE the People are all created equal This is America and WE the People demand that hate does not exist And when WE see injustice and exhibitions of hate WE stand up to the bullying and intimidation because that’s who WE are!! Everyone else is a statement of indecency and immorality They can’t help it because that’s who they are
Oh don't give them that excuse that "They can't help it." Every person supporting this regime is responsible for this mess. They had choices and great opportunities to do research - like everyone else in this country. (Very few people do not have a cell phone.) They chose their new savior; they've so enjoyed being encouraged to hate and to show their hatred, their prejudice, and they bask in their absolute loyalty to their new savior. They are as responsible, and they chose to be "why they are".
I admire you for your courage-thank you for speaking up and I feel great empathy for your family and their love for you. We trust you to make the best decision for all. Family first.
Thank you for your thoughtful,Humerous and to the point writings. I always enjoy them. Yesterday’s shooting was frightening, in the fact, we have an idea how the cult will react. Their leader’s response did not encourage calmness amongst his followers. Their man in my opinion, is stupid and evil. He continues to affect the quality of his countrymen’s lives. I appreciate your family’s and your fears. Michael, you are one of the good men who do something. Take a break for a minute. Hopefully this will be a 3 day media cycle. If not , consider investing in a wrap around bullet proof shield for your talk podiums and a vest. Do what you feel is right, so you are happy with yourself. Surround yourself with white light and believe there are more good people than evil in this world. Thank you for the service MTN provides. It is good work. The world needs more of that.
Stop it. You are not a hatemonger. Charlie Kirk was. He made his living off of being one. If, like so many of us, you were on the receiving end of his hate because of your race or your gender or your religion or your gender identity or your sexual orientation you would understand this. Like you, he occupied the public square. That should have been enough to protect him in his vileness. That it wasn't speaks volumes about our countries gun insanity. But it doesn't change the fact that Kirk wasn't just another debater, just another pundit. He was a weapon.
They killed a Minnesota senator and a past speaker last month. two others shot as well. maga didn't give a crap about them, especially the demented one.
We have each day tragedy in United States of America Ice Gestapo arrest further immigrants children attack Latino arrest for concentration camp detention camps in Los Angeles and other states Chicago White extremists Charlie Kirk has shot down in university rally what’s next we are al traumatized by this cancer political crisis Trump regime can’t handle nothing
I’m more convinced every minute that Charlie Kirk was sacrificed by the Powers That Be to be the modern-day Horst Wessel. This is the excuse they want to come after everyone who opposes the agenda - and hey, nobody is talking about Epstein today!
As much as I tell myself that it would be truly evil for “them” to sacrifice one of their own, I keep coming back to the idea that this was done to make bigger headlines than all the other dreadful things that get thrown at us every day. Yes, I my sympathies go out to Kirk’s family, and no-one deserves to be shot, but I believe “they” will stop at nothing to create more chaos and stir up more hatred and division.
You are not alone for sure. My good buddy from high school and I were talking about this same thing and both of us feeling awful for even thinking that but neither of us would be surprised. I haven’t turned anything on since I heard they had video of the shooter and it was a young person.
I was thinking along the same lines.
100%, an organized assassination.
I TOTALLY AGREE...they will stop at NOTHING
Interesting thought.
Actually, you're wrong! (Said gently, quietly . . .)
I just spent the evening of 9/11 reading through all the 320+ comments posted as of 7:00 PM. The first fifth of them are pretty much off the wall, speculative, not very responsive to Michael's question of us. A lot of the first bunch (and a few thereafter) are just plain fanciful, absent very much grounding in anything that could be known at this early date. I came very close not to going further than that first bunch. Baldly, they came across to me as off the point, idle, close to irresponsible expectation. But I kept going and I'm glad I did
But then the further on as "the tub got filled to the point of being warm enough and deep enough to get into," the answer for Michael, I believe, should prove deeply gratifying. He asked for advice and he got a lot. Excepting only a tiny handful of plainly nasty takes which only succeed in labeling their drafters as ignorant of the huge transition Cohen underwent, from "then" to "now," the overwhelming message of this warm and diverse set of assessments and offers of advice and counsel is the message of appreciation for his contributions to the American polity and the current authoritarian crisis, the hope that they will continue, and, most importantly, the sense of trust that he can and will, in fact, make a decision that is right for both him and his family. That's my sense and I post this assessment to encourage readers to not give up before they get past the idle speculation to the rendering of the advice that I believe will ground his decision and allow him to craft it into the right one. Thanks for asking, Michael. God speed!
I agree with you. I truly think Trump was behind this. He was too quick to lower the flag. He was too quick to issue his denouncement against democrats. He has now called open season on democrats. I truly fear for Gavin Newsom, Bernie Sanders, AOC, Elizabeth Warren. Remember also that the high school shooting victims have not been talked about either. So what do we do? Do we run and hide or do we keep holding our heads up for the truth? Me - I am going to keep praying and helping my community.
I agree, it's sad, that we have been driven to thinking like that, and I'm afraid for Michael and Ben, and all the brave, relentless people out there who risk their lives to try and keep our country safe from trump and his wealthy buddies.
MAGATS are responsible for this hatred, division, murders, violence and will stop at nothing so we will forget about the Epstein files.
Hegseth?
Kegseth
The timing of his death is very suspicious due to the pressure of the Epstein Files. Of course, we have no evidence to conclude why he was killed, and by whom.
Don't count on ever learning "by whom." The hit man is long gone. That young man in the blurry surveillance footage is probably one of the several thousand college students on campus for the event (or just classes) yesterday. This was the work of a trained sniper who got away.
Does anyone outside of the cult believe we're ever going to see an honest report after a thorough investigation by Patel's FBI? The "discovery" of an intact possible murder weapon nearby after successful removal of it from the campus just kicked my uncomfortable musings yesterday about a possible conspiracy to a whole new level of probability. Having all kinds of skeptical thoughts that it was a transgender antifa commando...
This is becoming one of those tangled webs in which the more we learn, the less we know. It sure looks carefully planned and the visceral responses pre-programmed.
The most incompetent, violent, corrupted administration in American history.
Very doubtful that there will be a thorough investigation for many years to come.
I totally agree with that theory
It's said that this wasn't an assassination, because KIrk wasn't elected.
It's said that, "this isn't us."
Martin Luther KIng Jr., Robert F Kennedy, Medgar Evers, William Lewis Moore, Emmet Lewis Till, Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson and Cynthia Wesley, Rev James Reeb, Viola Gregg Liuzzo...
What is most galling is how the hireling media immediately jumped on the bandwagon about what an upstanding family man and great contributor to society was this bigoted rabble-rouser. And we're supposed to fly the flag at half-staff for this advocate for gun violence? When the Frump refused to fly it in tribute to a real hero and patriot, John McCain? I suggest we fly all American flags upside down as a distress signal.
No we don't and we ought not jump to conclusion based on these presumptions. Evidence is required. There's a lot to be suspicious about; FACTS matter.
FACTS do matter, just depends who's telling the "facts"
Such as "alternative" facts?
what MAGA likes to consider "facts"...and who's willing to believe them
Isn't that a Republican-coined term?
Courtesy of Kellyanne Conway.
One line of evidence that is undeniable is that was one hell of a shot that coukd only have been done by a well trained sniper or someone who should play the lotto.
The writing is on the wall...DUMP steered this and had someone sacrificed to do just that...and the thing is, Kirk probably didn't see this coming, but the headlines sure make him appear to be a martyr
I don’t think Trump is smart enough to have engineered the thing but it certainly would appeal to him. It would take out two problems with one bullet. Kirk was pushing for the Epstein files to be released and he makes a handy martyr for the cause as well as a distraction. Sniper is more likely to be a navy seal than a college student.
you're right, he's not smart enough to "engineer" this, MAGA seems to have this vision that he's their "god"...and from other platforms, DUMP told Kirk to cool it, pipe down as far as the E-Files are concerned, then this happens...perfect set up...for a martyr
It was another distraction tatic, again someone lost their life. Satan is EVIL and will stop at nothing.
He's not satan. But he might be a tool of the antichrist, according to what my 3rd grade nun teacher taught 6 decades ago. This stuck with me as she slapped the back of my hand with a wooden ruler for asking a question she said was impertinent. She said there will be a few people who will become the antichrist's tools, in the future. You must not believe them, for they will lead you to hell. And you will burn in hell forever.
Or a maga that became disillusioned?
Not buying it. Wait for facts. Don't be a BlueAnon.
You really think that we’re going to get facts? I’d love to think so. So far it’s a lot of predictable hate-filled rhetoric.
I agree with you...100%
this will be spun so deep...they're good at that...spinnin' stories
Who is “they”?
Coming from the MAGATS. They needed another distraction from the Epstein files.
Bullshit. Are you distracted? I'm not.
Why would we not? It's not a conspiracy. I hope they take him alive. You're making assumptions based on zero knowledge right now.
There's videos of 2 men standing behind Kirk giving hand signals right before he was shot. Looks way too suspicious.
You're imagining things. Everything looks suspicious when you're looking for suspicious things. 😂
Where can I find the videos?
Look on my Substack
do you have a link?
Like we got all the facts from the Butler shooting? Comments from the hospital trump was supposedly treated at? Details about the shooter and his family?
Trump not being transparent about his health is NORMAL for him. And there were copious articles about Matthew Crooks and his family at the time. Go search the NY Times. I did. It's all there.
pretty much, that's why he has others create the stories for him
why are we still on this? Not being disrespectful, but we all know this was a FAKE shooting...
So Charlie Kirk DIDN'T get his left carotid blown out by a shooter on a rooftop 200 yards away? WTF?
well, you might want to start wrapping your head around this...this is all part of DUMPS game
it's not a game...he wants to eliminate all races other than the white supremacists!!! he will go to the lowest levels of hell to push his agenda and sacrifice whoever he needs to. Now he has the So. Korean president currently pissed off cuz of dumps revolting chicago ice agents/terrorists arresting the Koreans in chicago to deport. ok, now what is that going to cause....shall we just predict???
It's The Heritage Foundation's agenda! Trump is their golden nugget. He's following Project 2025 to a tee!
He's the convicted nut!
It seems like America will be in a war with all nations. The Bible speaks about this.
your point is completely valid...but this is DUMPS game...I get it, this is not a game to the rest of us...
I agree but it depends on who's telling the "facts"
So no one could ever be telling the truth about this? Christ, they haven't even found the guy and you're already assuming no one will be honest.
I agree all the facts are not in , but we do have some facts. The shooter was a trained marksman. Laura Loomer has been publicly criticizing Kirk. Trump was unhappy with Kirks support of releasing the Epstein files. Trump has been trying to distract public attention from the Epstein files.
None of those are facts that prove the blossoming conspiracy theory. And define “trained marksman”. I don't know why so many people suddenly think someone needs to be a Mission Impossible member or they can't hit the broadside of a barn. The guy knows how to use a scope sighted rifle, as do many gun enthusiasts. It's not that difficult a skill to learn with some practice.
you are spot on...they are deflecting from the E-Files...and used him to deflect from that topic...this is their game
TY!
This was a professional "hit." Nobody but a highly trained sharpshooter could be that accurate at 400+ feet (142 yards). He got away, perhaps with the help of others. There was writing on the remaining ammo about trans and antifascist ideology. Sounds like someone wanted to leave a message (most assassins do not mark their cartridges).
wait, they want to blame this bullshit on a TRANS person, are you serious????
Was stuck in traffic on the way home this evening, and for some reason found myself thinking that I had landed on why Trump hates trans people so much. He probably tried to rape a trans woman and got the shock of his life.
Yep
Sacrificial lamb?
Yes. In CK’s own words. He’s now the sacrificial lamb.
Let’s hope that Trump and his administration are NOT behind Kirk’s death. We all would be in grave danger if he was. Getting away with one murder would make him much more likely to adopt Putin’s approach to dispatching political rivals. As his niece titled her book, Enough is Never Enough, having a free hand in, literally, killing political descent to feed into his lust for power, Trump would resort to that again and again because one killing would not be enough for him.
I read an account from a former Marine sharpshooter that opined that no random killer could have executed such a shot from 200 yards without sharpshooter experience, and the shooting was a staged event that went terribly wrong, a la the person killed at the alleged attempt on Trump's life. Video footage shows that the sniper's bullet possibly ricocheted off the intended target - Kirk's bulletproof vest - and was deflected into his neck. Rotten luck for a Christo-Nazi influencer, but there we are.
Kirk espoused the idea that gun deaths are a necessary evil to keep the 2A so we can preserve our god given rights. With a mindset like that, he would probably have been a willing martyr…
I agree. Something ain’t right. The following is a copy of my initial response to this post-
Who’s Charlie Kirk?
Today is the anniversary of 9/11, a day of infamy when thousands of innocent people lost their lives. And thousands of others who were either in the towers or in proximity, are forever haunted by the tragic events of that day. And Americans everywhere who witnessed the events live on TV will never ever forget where we were and the immediate impact it had on us.
We didn’t know the WHY yet, but we instinctively knew that something monumental happened and it shattered our hearts, our innocence, and perhaps our naïve sense of impenetrability. (The assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK also left many of us in a collective state of shock and despair that’s held firmly in our hearts, in our bones and refined us in incalculable ways.)
So when trump immediately blamed the “radical left” for Kirk’s “assassination”, then declared that all American flags be flown at half staff and signed the following PROCLAMATION- I suddenly, instinctively felt that there was potentially a whole helluva lot more to this story than what meets the eye. (Link below)
Not only did trump not mention 9/11, but he actually superseded the 9/11 with a proclamation to honor Charlie Kirk. With excessive DRAMA. WHY?
Well, we can all certainly conjure up a wide variety of reasons, and we’d likely all be right.
(Of coarse I would never condone violence. In fact I’m a pacifist to my core. I don’t own a gun and never will. Which doesn’t automatically mean that I won’t speak my mind. And in the full context of what’s happening in our country and around the globe right now, again, I ask WHO’S CHARLIE KIRK?)
But I actually wondered whether he would also order that Kirk lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., allowing the public to pay their respects. And of course, he would give the eulogy. And then I also wondered whether trump would then order that he be buried in Arlington cemetery Section 60, with full military honors and a 21-gun salute!
(Could he actually DO that? Well from what we’ve witnessed over the last 9 months, the answer is YES! Who’s going to stop him? And maybe he would even declare 9/11 as a national holiday on behalf of Charlie Kirk! Okay I admit to having a wild imagination, but, js…)
Next question - Who shot Charlie Kirk? And WHY?
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/09/honoring-the-memory-of-charlie-kirk/
You are 100% correct...I'll be damned that a white supremist be laid to rest in ARLINGTON CEMETARY...that is for the REAL people that FOUGHT for this country...Kirk was a White Nationalist, NOT a Patriot...you're thoughts are NOT a wild imagination!
Before I even read your post, I thought to myself..."WAIT...what day is this????" This is 9/11! I was outside and thought to myself...WHY are we discussing CK when we should be discussing the worst disaster in US History? Everyone, including myself, became so consumed with this BULLSHIT that we didn't bring to light the past from 24yrs ago...I'm ashamed of myself for bringing attention to someone that doesn't give a shit about our values, nor deserved OUR time... someone that DUMP wanted us to talk about...CK is someone who does NOT deserve the attention of the American people because of what he stood for...yes, the assassination was wrong, but his principles and values are even MORE WRONG...thank you for reminding us what's MORE important...CK is a white suppremist/nationalist...there was nothing Patriotic about him...that's who CK was.
Yes. I agree wholeheartedly. Which is exactly why I asked the stupid, rhetorical question. Because it’s so absurd, so obscene. So nonsensical. So friggin’ twisted! Like a scene out of SNL. We’re in the Twilight Zone! And I’ll be damned if I’m going to pretend to be grieving for CK even for one damned nanosecond!
Everything is slimly.
We are being savaged.
I feel like I've been thrown into a clothes dryer, and I'm being tumbled into oblivion.
9/11 was awful. This is Evil magnified 10 times over.
Please, pinch me. so I can wake up!
My thought exactly.
That's exactly right, I think it was an organized assassination. I plea with the MT to keep speaking on the Epstein files because they needed another distraction.
My thoughts exactly! Thank you for posting!
Michael- take a deep breath. There hasn't been a safe space to publicly speak out for years and it's just hitting home for you and reinforcing your family's fears. Be with your family and listen to them. Let them take a deep breath. Let them be afraid. Let them see that you are present. Let them see that they are the most important thing in the world to you. There will be other elections but there will never be another family.
I agree. They are your priority 💙💙🙏🙏
There is a reason that Mitt Romney was paying $5000 per week for his families security, and it wasn’t from the liberals, radical leftists, marxists, democrats, or lgbtq people.
Somewhere Putin is smiling.
I smell treason.
Very well stated, Janet. I think that's a wise suggestion. I've learned to honor hesitation and un-ease when my tendency is to make things happen. You're doing plenty as is, Michael. Your health and well-being matter. You lamented that you're rebuilding your life, still healing. Take the time you need, as much as you need. Running for office seems a pressure you don't need right now. Go gently and breathe. Selfishly, we need your voice here. Much love from your Meidas family!
Charlie Kirk was not just a politician, he made his money humiliating people in public at their expense, made it acceptable to be racist , sexist and anti semitic.
He wasn't even a politician😡 just stirred the pot
Exactly
He stirred too much shitz
Not a politician. Just a hate-filled loudmouth.
wonder if nick fuentes will speak publicly soon. he and kirk are two peas in a pod, but I think fuentes is worse.
I thought they didn’t like each other.
My comment was a comparison of their behavioral ways....both the same with their thinking and revolting comments. I have no idea what their "buddy" relationship was.
Doesn't fuentes hate kirk (for some reason or another)?
I've never heard anything about that. maybe a jealousy do to kirk's rising star?
This is from a post: "For years Charlie Kirk and Nick Fuentes were after the same audience: young males on the far right. But what you might not know is that Nick Fuentes and his "Groypers" have hated Charlie Kirk for a long time, because he wasn't far right enough for them. Groypers have been starting trouble at Charlie Kirk appearances for many years. I’d guess there’s a stronger chance the shooter was a Fuentes follower than a leftist, as only 14% of voters in the area are registered Democrats, but let's wait for the facts to come out."
Wow interesting article. To be honest, I haven't really followed these awful people. My sons know more about it. Fuentes is plain evil as his friends. I don't believe a dem was responsible, more likely a paid assassin per drumpf as a cover up.
He wasn't a politician at all! He just enjoyed throwing gasoline on nearby fires.
He did not deserve to be murdered for that, even as much of a stochastic terrorist as he was. Murder accomplishes nothing, makes nothing better.
Exactly. Which is why I posted the following comment as my initial response to Michael’s post -
I agree. Something ain’t right. The following is a copy of my initial response to this post-
Who’s Charlie Kirk?
Today is the anniversary of 9/11, a day of infamy when thousands of innocent people lost their lives. And thousands of others who were either in the towers or in proximity, are forever haunted by the tragic events of that day. And Americans everywhere who witnessed the events live on TV will never ever forget where we were and the immediate impact it had on us.
We didn’t know the WHY yet, but we instinctively knew that something monumental happened and it shattered our hearts, our innocence, and perhaps our naïve sense of impenetrability. (The assassinations of JFK, MLK, RFK also left many of us in a collective state of shock and despair that’s held firmly in our hearts, in our bones and redefined us in incalculable ways.)
So when trump immediately blamed the “radical left” for Kirk’s “assassination”, then declared that all American flags be flown at half staff and signed the following PROCLAMATION- I suddenly, instinctively felt that there was potentially a whole helluva lot more to this story than what meets the eye. (Link below 1.)
Not only did trump not mention 9/11, but he actually superseded the 9/11 tragedy with a proclamation to honor Charlie Kirk!?!?! With excessive DRAMA. WHY? How does that makes sense?
Well, we can all certainly conjure up a wide variety of reasons, and we’d likely all be right.
(Of coarse I would never condone violence. In fact I’m a pacifist to my core. I don’t own a gun and I never will. And I’ve always been registered as an independent. Which doesn’t automatically mean that I won’t speak my mind. And in the full context of what’s happening in our country and around the globe right now, again, I ask WHO’S CHARLIE KIRK?)
But I actually wondered whether he would also order that Kirk lie in state in the
U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., allowing the public to pay their respects. And of course, he would give the eulogy. And then I also wondered whether trump would then order that he be buried in Arlington cemetery Section 60, with full military honors and a 21-gun salute!
(Could he actually DO that? Well from what we’ve witnessed over the last 9 months, the answer is YES! Who’s going to stop him? And maybe he would even declare 9/11 as a national holiday on behalf of Charlie Kirk! Okay I admit to having a wild imagination, but, js…)
Next question - Who shot Charlie Kirk and more importantly, WHY?
1.) https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/09/honoring-the-memory-of-charlie-kirk/
That's important. It gets directly at the nub of how difficult it is to support pluralistic democracy.
We have to respect the rights of people like Kirk to do exactly what Nicholas identified; so long as he doesn't break laws. At the same time we have to do everything in our power to counter the tendency to absorb those beliefs (people want to find handy scapegoats for all their disappointments).
I'm sad and angry about his assassination. Why? Because I don't think we should be killing each other. But doesn't mean I condone his snakeoil sales job.
Murder, not assassination.
God always have the final say. He sees it all!!!
Charlie Kirk has a warm seat in hell......right beside James Dobson.
The worst part of what he did was poison the minds of young people. Talk about indoctrination.
Charlie Kirk was "speaking out" and confronting lies, etc? Please. Most of his rhetoric involved spreading falsehoods and fear.
For example, Kirk’s very last words promoted the lie that transgender people are responsible for “Too many” of the mass shootings of the past decade.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, transgender shooters account for about 0.11 % of the 3,561 mass shootings since 2016.
Kirk’s statement – in line with his Turning Point USA nonprofit – was part of his strategy of sowing and exploiting fear that white Christian supremacy is under attack by immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community and civil rights activists.
In December of 2023, at his America Fest convention, Kirk said “We made a huge mistake when we passed the Civil Rights Act in the 1960s.”
As William Turton wrote in Wired, Jan 12, 2024, quoting Nick Surgey, executive director of watchdog group Documented, “This is not dog-whistle politics, it's blatant and intended to cause outrage. That's really the point.”
Kirk’s politics called upon and stoked fears, a tactic that has indeed stood the test of time in garnering support. It would be offensive to name the equally unethical men in recent and ancient history who have done the same.
I think you’re missing his point. No one in this comment section thinks Charlie Kirk was confronting lies- he was spewing them. But the point of free speech is that he should be able to spew his lies and not be shot. I’m not condoning him, defending him- neither is Michael. Charlie and others spewing lies are indefensible. But if Charlie can get shot and we all don’t speak out — then so can Michael. So can AOC. And any others we happen to agree with.
The author writes, "Charlie was doing exactly what I do—what so many of us do. He went into schools, communities, and town halls. He stood in front of people, some who loved him, some who hated him, and he tried to persuade them, to teach them, to engage them. He put himself in the arena. Isn’t that what I’ve been talking to you about all along? The obligation to show up, to confront the lies, to try and change minds? And yet, that same commitment to showing up is what got him killed."
The author aligns himself with Kirk as someone who had an "obligation to show up, to confront the lies..." I'm not missing the author's point. If Kirk was someone who went to public meetings as some kind of fearless messenger, confronting lies, then truth really is on its head today. Kirk was a lie-mongerer. When lies have concrete, destructive effects on others (as one can argue that Kirk's lies did and do), then that's called slander, not free speech, and is not legal. The esteemed Southern Poverty Law Center would support this, and in fact listed Kirk and his TPUSA among ultra hard right white supremacy groups.
Where I agree that there is some concern far more now than there was before Charlie Kirk got shot, it's also something that seems all too convenient for what's going on currently. Notice how there's no talk or not as much of it about that same files being released or the fact that we have a sitting president and many others in Congress that participated in Jeffrey Epstein's Island crimes against little girls. It absolutely is terrifying, but let's not forget who started this rhetoric with the hate and Division of this country. It wasn't Democrats it was the Republicans and that POS in the white house. It was every single person that made excuses for this Behavior, that supported this man and the people that surround him, it's all the people that have spread lies and conspiracy theories and done their part to contribute to what's going on now. People can only take so much before they break and it'll be interesting to see what the motive was behind this shooters crime. It'll be interesting to see what is said and maybe we'll be able to truly understand what was going on there. There's so much going on and so much Darkness all of the time from day to day that this is a fear that it will keep being repeated and that's scary, however we can't give up or we lose everything. We have to fight back and we can't stop or we lose everything. Thinking about how we fight back that will make an impact and matter is a hard thing to figure out. I believe that there needs to be more than just peaceful protesting or being loud, those things need to continue but I feel like there needs to be more of a push we're not making as much headway as we need to in my opinion. Thank you for speaking up and being a voice that is helping to fight back and making us aware of certain things going on that maybe we wouldn't otherwise be aware of, but this is not a time to give in to fear. I get it you want to be there for your family your kids and your wife and everyone involved in your family are scared for you, but if we don't have people like you speaking up and speaking for us fighting for us, then who do we have? Ultimately it's your decision whether you run for office or not, I hope that you consider it but ultimately that's your choice and I think we all understand if you don't but I hope that you keep doing this and you'll stay in the fight with us for sure.we cannot let thwm win. We cannot let this incident be the downfall. We cannot let them blame us and take us down.
No one deserves to be murdered, my heart goes out to the family.
Make no mistake about it,
the o t is the sole instigator of the current hateful political climate and he’s totally throughout the Epstein Files.
Right now is not the time to make such a consequential decision. What you’re doing already, on social media, is enough. Stay safe💙
Yes. We should be able to, but there are consequences to stirring up hateful sentiments. Words DO matter! Why did Charlie think he could spout hateful messages without it coming home to roost? Was he so naive that he didn’t understand how this works?
And I hear more of it today from others who should know better, including our president.
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can get you killed.
A SCHOOL SHOOTING occurred on March 27, 2023, killing 3 children and three adults.
This was Kirk’s response to that massacre when he spoke on April 5, 2023: "I THINK IT'S WORTH IT. I think it's worth to have a cost of, UNFORTUNATELY, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our OTHER God-given rights."
Would he say it was worth it now? Don't know...But I'm pretty sure he was absolutely stunned when he met his Maker, and couldn't belittle God into believing his lies.
Murder (it was a murder, not an assassination) is illegal. Murderers are punished for committing that crime. But Charlie Kirk was an asshole. He'll be missed only by those who hate all the groups he hated - people of color, strong women, transgender people, nonChistians, immigrants, liberals, etc.
When you lay with dogs you catch fleas, CK paid the ultimate price. Never trust any dog.
Thank you for risking everything for your Country. We appreciate you guys, and many of us feel the same way you do. We are with you.
He was no better than Alex Jones. Unlike most other INNOCENT victims of gun violence, he helped CREATE the violent, hate-filled hellscape that we all are forced to live in BECAUSE of people like him. It ironically took his life. He is no martyr. He became a millionaire by spewing hate and misinformation. He supported and helped elect a rapist who constantly stokes violence and division. Ironically, if the people he vilified had their way, his murder WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED because violent hate speech would not be tolerated, guns would be tightly controlled, the President would not send out memes about going to war with a US city!
Yes a big difference! Very ironic way he died…
They have spewed so much hate and aggression from day 1. It must stop.
You commend Charlie Kirk for getting out there, trying to persuade people that his beliefs are correct when it’s his very beliefs that created the environment that killed him. He fervently wished harm on anyone who didn’t look like him but I’m supposed to take time out of my day to mourn? You are actively helping to sanitize this man’s legacy - that’s the real danger you should be concerned about. Maybe you should think about why you feel compelled to do so.
No, I don’t think anyone is pressuring you to take time to mourn. The call, I think, is to consider how we must stand to protect free speech, democracy, etc etc. To remember that while we disagree with everything Charlie Kirk said and did, if he is shot and we don’t protest— there goes any hope of others not being shot, too. We have to keep working for EVERYONE to be safe to speak, to share, etc.
I wish you the best of luck with that
The author is using Kirk's death in order to wrap himself in righteousness, and to get Substack readers, and, apparently, to run for public office! Hell no.
No he’s not. He’s being authentic and vulnerable.
The little “I don’t know if I’m gonna run for office” line - you gotta be fucking kidding me with this shit
Michael, everyone deserves to take a mental health break, to step away for a while. If that's what you need to do, do it. Nobody will blame you for taking some time for self and family care. We appreciate all you do, but no one has to carry the burden alone. Let some time go by, let the dust settle. Don't make any decisions when things are still raw and everyone is in a defensive crouch. Know that whatever you decide, it's OK. We have your back. Stay safe and keep your family close.
I'm confused. It wasn't that long ago that democrats were assassinated? Why is it now, when a far right/white supremist gets killed, that's too far?when it's a good looking white guy? What is it that makes this singular killing more important that the school shooting that occurred the same day and killed more kids?
I honestly don't understand what makes _this_ moment the flash point?
The right wing extremists, led by Laura Loomer and trump, have made this their moment of provocation, their Reichstag fire.
What about the legislators from Minnesota? What about them?
Because Charlie was a political activist.. Ben is a political activist. So it hits harder for him.
https://youtu.be/k__vlLU6gqk?si=iBx8NRVqWD6CjVzj
This says it better than I could
Hi Michael. Your article had me crying, but that’s me. My heart is aching for your family, there is so much love there. I can truly understand their fear, and the emotional effect it has on you. I can also truly understand your need to continue to bring the fight, to educate, and to reach out in substantial ways. What a terrible dilemma. Please take the time that you need to get all this sorted. No decisions have to be made today.
And lastly, I have learned so much from your articles, your conversations with Ben, and others. I have always felt more energized after reading or watching. I truly appreciate everything you do. Take care of yourself. 🇨🇦🇨🇦
What the fuck are you fucking talking about? You self possessed assole mornos act as if you are having a conversation with a neighbor?
WTH? Someone doesn’t have to live next to you to be considered neighbor. We are all neighbors to each other. It’s a small world now with instant virtual group discussions. Just like talking to a neighbor across your fence. 🧐🤷♂️
Dale Blair. Thank you for this. I have been thinking about this ‘mornos’ (figured out he meant morons) response. Yes, my comments were emotionally driven, considering everything that has happened in the past couple days. It’s also called empathy, something this asshole doesn’t understand. I appreciate your response and support. It means a lot.
Can someone please report this assole (asshole) please? Mine doesn’t work. Thanks.
Human Decency, Compassion, and Empathy Is What Binds Us
If there is anything that comes out of Cheeto’s Nazi America is that for once in a long while WE the People are challenged to be and say who WE are WE are the citizens of a country that protect human decency, compassion, and empathy WE stand for our fellow human beings whether they are immigrants or not WE speak out when we see our fellow human beings being hurt or when they are looked at condescendingly
And WE the People stand up against a Nazi SCOTUS and all Nazis who want to look the other way and demand that WE the People are all created equal This is America and WE the People demand that hate does not exist And when WE see injustice and exhibitions of hate WE stand up to the bullying and intimidation because that’s who WE are!! Everyone else is a statement of indecency and immorality They can’t help it because that’s who they are
Oh don't give them that excuse that "They can't help it." Every person supporting this regime is responsible for this mess. They had choices and great opportunities to do research - like everyone else in this country. (Very few people do not have a cell phone.) They chose their new savior; they've so enjoyed being encouraged to hate and to show their hatred, their prejudice, and they bask in their absolute loyalty to their new savior. They are as responsible, and they chose to be "why they are".
Absolutely
I admire you for your courage-thank you for speaking up and I feel great empathy for your family and their love for you. We trust you to make the best decision for all. Family first.
Thank you for your thoughtful,Humerous and to the point writings. I always enjoy them. Yesterday’s shooting was frightening, in the fact, we have an idea how the cult will react. Their leader’s response did not encourage calmness amongst his followers. Their man in my opinion, is stupid and evil. He continues to affect the quality of his countrymen’s lives. I appreciate your family’s and your fears. Michael, you are one of the good men who do something. Take a break for a minute. Hopefully this will be a 3 day media cycle. If not , consider investing in a wrap around bullet proof shield for your talk podiums and a vest. Do what you feel is right, so you are happy with yourself. Surround yourself with white light and believe there are more good people than evil in this world. Thank you for the service MTN provides. It is good work. The world needs more of that.
Stop it. You are not a hatemonger. Charlie Kirk was. He made his living off of being one. If, like so many of us, you were on the receiving end of his hate because of your race or your gender or your religion or your gender identity or your sexual orientation you would understand this. Like you, he occupied the public square. That should have been enough to protect him in his vileness. That it wasn't speaks volumes about our countries gun insanity. But it doesn't change the fact that Kirk wasn't just another debater, just another pundit. He was a weapon.
So you don’t think MAGA would try to kill a liberal political activist?
The MAGAs will do whatever Trump tells them to do...
MAGA would try to kill a liberal political activist.
They killed a Minnesota senator and a past speaker last month. two others shot as well. maga didn't give a crap about them, especially the demented one.
We have each day tragedy in United States of America Ice Gestapo arrest further immigrants children attack Latino arrest for concentration camp detention camps in Los Angeles and other states Chicago White extremists Charlie Kirk has shot down in university rally what’s next we are al traumatized by this cancer political crisis Trump regime can’t handle nothing