Who is Matthew Dowd? MSNBC analyst fired after saying Charlie Kirk was to blame for his own death | World News

Matthew Dowd, a veteran political analyst for MSNBC, was dismissed following controversial remarks concerning the deadly taking pictures of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on 10 September 2025. During a dwell broadcast shortly after the incident, Dowd urged that Kirk’s rhetoric and “divisive” phrases contributed to the atmosphere that led to his death. His feedback have been extensively condemned as insensitive and as blaming a homicide sufferer. MSNBC swiftly issued an apology, describing Dowd’s remarks as unacceptable, and terminated his contract the identical day, although Dowd later clarified that he didn’t intend to straight blame Kirk.

The Charlie Kirk taking pictures and Matthew Dowd’s remarks

Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA and a distinguished conservative commentator, was fatally shot at a school occasion in Utah. During a broadcast shortly after the taking pictures, Dowd implied that Kirk’s rhetoric contributed to the circumstances of his death, stating, “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions.” He additionally speculated that the shooter may need acted in “celebration,” sparking outrage from viewers and political commentators.

Who is Matthew Dowd?

Matthew Dowd, 64, is a seasoned political analyst and commentator who joined MSNBC in 2022. He has had a protracted profession in political media, together with work at ABC News, and beforehand ran as a Democratic candidate for Texas lieutenant governor. Dowd is identified for his evaluation of electoral politics, social actions, and US political traits. His in depth media expertise made him a distinguished voice on political commentary prior to the controversy.

Backlash and MSNBC’s response

Dowd’s remarks have been extensively criticised as inappropriate and insensitive. MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler issued a proper apology, calling the feedback unacceptable. Despite Dowd’s private apology clarifying he didn’t intend to blame Kirk, the community terminated his contract instantly. Anchor Katy Tur, who additionally made controversial feedback describing Kirk as “divisive,” stays with MSNBC however has confronted criticism for politicising the tragedy.

Media and public response

The firing highlighted tensions in media protection surrounding politically charged violent incidents. Many commentators emphasised that victim-blaming is unacceptable and that political discourse shouldn’t be linked to acts of violence. The incident has sparked broader debates on how networks deal with commentary within the rapid aftermath of tragedies, and the way journalists navigate politically delicate occasions.