MSNBC Ousts Analyst After Abhorrent Charlie Kirk Comments

September 11, 2025

MSNBC has fired political analyst Matthew Dowd after he suggested that Charlie Kirk’s own rhetoric led to his assassination, two sources told Fox News Digital.

The network moved swiftly to distance itself from the comments. “During our breaking news coverage of the shooting of Charlie Kirk, Matthew Dowd made comments that were inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable,” MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler said. “We apologize for his statements, as has he. There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”

Dowd sparked backlash after speculating that Kirk, a leading conservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump, may have created the environment that led to his shooting. He told MSNBC host Katy Tur, “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions.”

His remarks drew sharp condemnation. Fox News’ Jesse Watters declared, “Dowd should be fired immediately… You can’t say Charlie deserved to die.” White House staffers also blasted the network, with one senior Trump official calling MSNBC commentators “scumbags” who are “hurting this nation with their awful rhetoric.”

Dowd later attempted to walk back his comments on social media, insisting he “in no way intended for my comments to blame Kirk for this horrendous attack.”

Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA and built it into one of the country’s most influential youth conservative organizations, died at 31 after being shot at Utah Valley University. The tragedy leaves the conservative movement mourning one of its most prominent young leaders. As Kutler concluded, “There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”

Supreme Court Holds the Line Against South Carolina’s Bathroom Ban

September 11, 2025

Supreme Court (3) — (Jimmy Woo/Unsplash)

The U.S. Supreme Court on September 10, 2025, declined South Carolina’s emergency request to enforce a state law barring transgender students from using the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity. The decision clears the way for a lower-court injunction to stand, effectively preventing enforcement of the policy while legal battles continue. The brief, unsigned order clarified that it does not reflect a judgment on the merits of the case, but rather rests solely on the strict standards for emergency relief. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch dissented.

South Carolina enacted the controversial law as part of its 2024 budget, which mandates a 25 percent funding cut for public K–12 schools that do not enforce sex-at-birth bathroom use. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals previously blocked enforcement, citing constitutional concerns under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause. The Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene keeps that block in place.

The case began when a transgender male student, identified only as John Doe, was suspended for using the boys’ restroom. He challenged the state’s policy, and the Fourth Circuit granted an injunction limited to him. Doe’s legal team criticized the emergency appeal, arguing that no injury would result from maintaining his bathroom access during litigation.

South Carolina’s attorney general signaled continued confidence in the law, stating the state would pursue the matter through the courts. The high court’s decision not to act on an emergency basis leaves the debate unresolved, but preserves the status quo while the courts decide. With similar cases pending—such as the one regarding transgender athletes—the outcome could influence state-level authority over gender-related policies.

Charlie Kirk Assassination Sparks Rare Bipartisan Outrage

September 11, 2025

Charlie Kirk Shot — (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has ignited a rare moment of bipartisan outrage in Washington. Kirk was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University during his “American Comeback Tour.” The attack, which authorities have labeled politically motivated, led to an immediate response from lawmakers across the political spectrum condemning political violence and calling for a national recommitment to civil discourse.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune declared on the Senate floor that “political violence…has no place in this country—none,” emphasizing the need to respect all Americans regardless of ideology. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed the sentiment, warning that the escalation of hostility in political rhetoric has reached a deadly breaking point. Members of the House, including Rep. Mike Lawler, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, all issued public statements condemning the attack and expressing sorrow for Kirk’s family and supporters.

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords, a survivor of a political shooting, released a statement urging the nation to reject violence as a method of political expression. “Democratic societies will always have political disagreements,” she said, “but we must never allow America to become a country that confronts those disagreements with violence.” Her statement resonated across party lines, as leaders from both red and blue states urged calm and unity.

President Trump called for prayer and strength in a message posted to Truth Social, describing Kirk as “a great guy from top to bottom” and asking Americans to “pray for Charlie Kirk. GOD BLESS HIM!” Other faith-driven leaders expressed grief over the loss, calling it a moment to reaffirm the sanctity of life, the value of peaceful advocacy, and the urgency of restoring respect in public dialogue.

Kirk’s death has become a rallying point for both conservatives and liberals seeking to push back against an increasingly toxic political climate. The reaction reflects a shared understanding—however fleeting—that violence must never be accepted as part of American politics. The national mourning for Kirk has transcended party boundaries, signaling that the appetite for justice and peace remains strong among the American people.

‘We Must All Pray’: Trump Pleads for Prayer After Charlie Kirk Shooting

September 11, 2025

Trump deportations — Donald Trump (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

President Donald Trump released a prayerful plea on September 10, 2025, following the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Posting on Truth Social, Trump described Kirk as “a great guy from top to bottom” and urged the nation: “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk. GOD BLESS HIM!”

Before the tragic outcome, several officials had called for prayers. Vice President J.D. Vance wrote, “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.” Utah Senator Mike Lee similarly requested public prayers for Kirk and the students present.

Charlie Kirk was shot while speaking during his “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. Initial reports indicated a person of interest was in custody, though that individual was later released, and the shooter has not yet been apprehended. The FBI joined local authorities in the investigation.

Trump’s heartfelt statement and the widespread call for prayer highlight the stark reality of rising political violence. Conservative leaders and faith-driven communities see this as a moment to unite in spiritual solidarity, reminding America that moral courage and prayer are paramount in times of national crisis.

Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot at Utah University, Person of Interest in Custody

September 11, 2025

charlie kirk (1) — (Photo by Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on Tuesday, September 10, while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The attack took place during the kickoff event of Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour,” hosted by Turning Point USA. Authorities confirmed that the fatal shot came from approximately 200 yards away, striking Kirk in the neck mid-speech. A person of interest was initially taken into custody, though later released, as law enforcement continues the search for the shooter.

The shooting caused immediate chaos as Kirk collapsed and attendees fled in panic. Footage captured the moment the shot struck, showing Kirk recoil as blood poured from his neck. Law enforcement responded swiftly, placing the campus on lockdown while federal and local agencies secured the area. The FBI has joined the investigation, and as of now, the gunman remains unidentified and at large.

Reactions from political leaders were swift. Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the shooting, calling it an attack on free speech and democratic discourse. Members of Congress from both parties echoed similar sentiments, though some conservative leaders directly linked the incident to escalating anti-conservative rhetoric in media and academia. The event has reignited debate over the rise of political violence in the United States.

Eyewitness accounts describe confusion and horror in the moments after the shot was fired. One attendee said the sound echoed like a firecracker before screams erupted and security rushed the stage. Reports indicate the shot may have come from a nearby campus building, not from within the venue itself. Police are currently analyzing surveillance footage and ballistic evidence to track the source and trajectory of the bullet.

Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was a prominent figure in conservative youth activism and a vocal supporter of Christian values in public life. He leaves behind his wife Erika and their two children. Faith leaders across the country have expressed sorrow and prayers for the Kirk family, recognizing his bold advocacy for biblical truth in a secular culture increasingly hostile to conservative voices.

Schumer Ambushes GOP with Epstein Files Vote

September 11, 2025

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer launched a surprise political maneuver on Tuesday by attaching an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that would force the release of all Jeffrey Epstein-related documents within 30 days. The amendment caught Republicans off guard and triggered immediate backlash, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune calling it a “political sideshow” designed to trap GOP senators into a controversial vote. Schumer announced a full roll call vote to compel every member to take a public stance on whether to support the disclosure of Justice Department files tied to Epstein’s criminal activities.

The amendment revives renewed scrutiny over connections between powerful political figures and Epstein’s network. Democrats are escalating the issue following their release of what they claim is a birthday card from President Trump to Epstein. The Trump White House has denied the authenticity of the card and dismissed the narrative as a partisan hoax. Still, Schumer’s move forces Republicans into a high-stakes decision—support full transparency or risk accusations of protecting elite wrongdoers.

This follows earlier attempts in the House, where Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie introduced legislation to mandate Epstein file disclosures. House Speaker Mike Johnson discouraged support for the measure, citing procedural concerns, and most Republicans followed suit. However, Rep. Ralph Norman broke ranks, joining Democrats in a committee vote to advance the bill. These divisions highlight the broader conflict within the Republican Party over how to handle the politically explosive Epstein case.

In the Senate, conservatives like Sen. Marsha Blackburn have called for full, unredacted disclosures from the FBI and IRS, including flight logs, surveillance footage, and Epstein’s “little black book.” Blackburn emphasized the need for justice for victims and transparency for the public. While Thune has previously voiced support for full disclosure, the GOP leadership is wary of tactics seen as politically motivated, especially when tied to must-pass defense legislation.

Schumer’s amendment places political pressure directly on Republicans ahead of a contentious election cycle.

Grand Valley State U Pushes Social Justice Curriculum Despite Federal Scrutiny

September 11, 2025

Grand Valley State University’s Frederik Meijer Honors College restructured admissions and its academic focus around a social-justice framework. Emails from 2022 show leadership sidelined traditional essays—citing cultural barriers for BIPOC applicants—and shifted toward community-based letters and an overt social-justice curriculum to boost diversity.

According to newly released internal emails from 2022, Honors College officials proposed scrappping traditional application essays in favor of “letters of support,” arguing some BIPOC students view self-promotion as culturally insensitive. Interim Associate Dean Melanie Shell-Weiss wrote that the college should “obviously and overtly orient the curriculum and co-curriculum toward social justice.” Recruitment strategies reportedly included encouraging word-of-mouth outreach by diverse students and emphasizing inclusivity and community building.

These initiatives come amid a federal investigation into GVSU’s admissions practices. In March 2025, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights launched an investigation following a complaint by the Equal Protection Project. The complaint alleges the university offered at least 11 scholarships that discriminate based on race or national origin, potentially violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Protection Clause.

GVSU previously denied allegations that race played a role in its honors admissions and scholarships, asserting broad access for students of color and legal compliance.

Victor Davis Hanson Slams South Korea: ‘They Forgot Who Died for Their Freedom’

September 11, 2025

Hoover Institution scholar Victor Davis Hanson sharply criticized South Korea’s response to a U.S. immigration raid at a Korean-owned battery plant, saying the nation forgot the American blood shed to secure its liberty. Hanson warned that America’s global sacrifices are being erased—even by its allies.

Appearing on Fox News’ The Ingraham Angle, Hanson reacted to reports that the South Korean government pushed back against immigration enforcement under the Trump administration at a Korean-operated facility. Hanson called the reaction shocking and ungrateful, given the United States’ historic defense of the Korean Peninsula.

“For 75 years, the United States, at the cost of 36,000 lives, created South Korea’s freedom and protected it,” Hanson said. He noted he “was a little shocked at the reaction of the South Korean government” and expected them to “restrain themselves a little bit, but they didn’t.”

The Trump administration has prioritized strict enforcement of immigration law and cracking down on labor violations, especially in foreign-owned EV and battery manufacturing plants. South Korea’s objection to the federal investigation has raised concerns about allies benefiting from U.S. protection while undermining American sovereignty.

Hanson’s critique reflects growing sentiment among conservative analysts and voters that foreign allies must show respect for American law and the lives sacrificed for their freedom. The Korean War remains a defining moment in Cold War history, with U.S. forces halting communist aggression and preserving South Korea’s independence.

Calls are increasing for a reassessment of foreign aid and security partnerships with nations that publicly oppose U.S. domestic policies while continuing to rely on American military, trade, and diplomatic support.

Congressional Clown Show: Rep. Pou Misses Vote on Her Own Bill

September 11, 2025

Republican analysts and local officials expressed outrage after freshman Rep. Nellie Pou failed to cast a recorded vote on legislation she introduced addressing a critical water crisis in her district. The absence comes amid growing scrutiny over her effectiveness and engagement in Washington.

Rep. Nellie Pou (D‑NJ‑09), serving in one of the districts President Trump flipped in 2024, celebrated advancing her “Water Crisis Prevention Act” from committee to the House floor. Yet she failed to participate in the subsequent roll call vote—despite speaking in favor of the bill just 40 minutes earlier during its markup. Her absence cost her the opportunity to record support for her own measure.

House Republicans seized on the lapse. The National Republican Congressional Committee labeled Pou “clueless, out of touch and soon to be out of job,” criticizing her for skipping the vote while voters suffered without water.

Pou’s office responded by pointing to a voice vote during markup, claiming that it counts as final passage. But congressional procedure experts disagree. Only roll call votes officially record members’ votes—voice votes offer no record of individual stances and are not binding. Pou also skipped two other roll call votes during the same markup session.

Local leadership added pressure from home. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and other local officials questioned Pou’s responsiveness during the water main break that left 200,000 residents without water. They demanded federal intervention, noting they received little guidance or support from her office during the crisis.

Critics also highlighted Pou’s concurrent activities. She participated in an AIPAC-affiliated trip to Israel while the water emergency unfolded—an action that did not go unnoticed in her district.

Fundraising data raises further concern. Pou raised a modest $350,000 in the first quarter of 2025 and roughly $500,000 in the second—substantially less than the $1.1 million raised by average swing‑district Republicans in that period. Her financial shortfall could signal trouble heading into both the primary and general election. d

Pou’s district proved to be a narrow Trump win by just one percentage point in 2024—on the heels of President Biden’s 19-point victory there in 2020. The sharp rightward shift highlights the volatility of Pou’s seat and the political risk of appearing disengaged.

Columbia Ranked Worst University for Free Speech in Nation

September 11, 2025

Trump antisemitism investigations — Columbia University (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Columbia University has been named one of the worst colleges in America for free speech, according to the 2026 College Free Speech Rankings published by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). The university landed at 256 out of 257 schools surveyed, just above Barnard College, which came in dead last.

The FIRE report evaluated 257 institutions based on how well they protect and promote free expression. Columbia received failing grades in categories like “Administrative Support” and “Comfort Expressing Ideas,” contributing to its near-bottom ranking. The survey results reflect growing discontent among students who feel silenced by rigid ideological environments and administrative indifference.

More than 60 percent of schools in the survey received a failing grade for free speech. Columbia’s low ranking suggests that students there are among the least confident in expressing differing views. The report specifically noted that conservative and religious students feel especially targeted or marginalized.

Southern universities dominated the top of the rankings, with schools like the University of Florida and Auburn earning high marks. In contrast, Northeast schools like Columbia, Barnard, and others showed consistent hostility to open dialogue. Only ten schools from the Northeast made it into the top 100, despite the region’s high concentration of elite institutions.

One admissions counselor, reacting to the rankings, said students are now actively avoiding campuses known for ideological strife. “I don’t want to go to a college where everybody’s angry at each other, and everybody’s fighting over everything,” the counselor told FIRE.

The report follows years of controversy at Columbia over censorship, disinvited speakers, and a pattern of administrators failing to defend academic freedom. Critics argue that elite institutions are abandoning their responsibility to uphold the free exchange of ideas, especially when those ideas challenge left-wing orthodoxy.