MSNBC Fires Analyst Matthew Dowd After Controversial Comments

New York, NY — MSNBC has terminated its contract with political analyst Matthew Dowd following his controversial remarks about the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at a college event in Utah. Dowd’s comments prompted a swift backlash and an apology from the network.

On Wednesday, September 10, while reporting on the shooting, Dowd suggested that the gunfire might have come from one of Kirk’s supporters, stating, “[We] don’t know if this is a supporter shooting their gun off in celebration or… So we have no idea about this.” His comments were criticized as inappropriate, particularly as they came during a live broadcast covering an act of violence.

MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler addressed the situation, stating, “During our breaking news coverage of the shooting of Charlie Kirk, Matthew Dowd made comments that were inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable. We apologize for his statements, as has he. There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”

Kirk was shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. Eyewitnesses reported a sudden panic as shots rang out, leading many attendees to flee in fear. Kirk, 31, was mortally wounded in the neck and succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

In his defense, Dowd later apologized via social media, insisting he did not intend to blame Kirk for the attack. “My thoughts & prayers are w/ the family and friends of Charlie Kirk. I apologize for my tone and words. Let me be clear, I in no way intended for my comments to blame Kirk for this horrendous attack,” he wrote.

Reactions to both Dowd’s comments and the events surrounding Kirk’s death were highly polarized online. Social media responses condemned Dowd and questioned the appropriateness of his remarks during a tragedy. Celebrity and media figures, including former President Donald Trump, also weighed in, confirming Kirk’s death and expressing condolences.

The investigation into Kirk’s shooting remains ongoing, with at least one person of interest initially taken into custody, though later released. The shooting has reopened discussions about political violence in America.