MSNBC Fires Matthew Dowd After Controversial Remarks on Charlie Kirk’s Killing

MSNBC senior political analyst Matthew Dowd has been fired after making controversial comments about Charlie Kirk’s assassination during an appearance on Katy Tur Reports. Dowd suggested that Kirk’s style of speech might have contributed to the tragic shooting at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. His remarks, which were widely condemned as insensitive, led to his termination from the network.

The Controversial Remarks

The comments came during a discussion on the broader context of the shooting. Dowd was asked about the environment in which the incident occurred. While acknowledging that few details were available at the time, Dowd went on to describe Charlie Kirk as “one of the most divisive” public figures. He further claimed that Kirk often engaged in “hate speech aimed at certain groups.”

Dowd then made a connection between rhetoric and violence. “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions,” he said. His words suggested that the speech of controversial figures like Kirk could incite harmful behavior. Dowd’s remarks drew immediate backlash, with critics accusing him of implying that Kirk’s speech was somehow responsible for the shooting.

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MSNBC’s Response

MSNBC was quick to distance itself from Dowd’s comments. In a statement, network president Rebecca Kutler called Dowd’s remarks “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable.” She emphasized that there was no place for violence in the country, whether political or otherwise, and issued an apology for the comments made by their analyst.

Dowd himself also apologized for his words, acknowledging that his remarks were inappropriate. The network confirmed that Dowd had been terminated from his position as a senior political analyst. His firing came as part of MSNBC’s effort to maintain a respectful and non-inflammatory tone in their political commentary.

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Who Is Matthew Dowd?

Matthew Dowd is a seasoned political strategist with a long history in U.S. politics. He first gained significant recognition as the chief strategist for President George W. Bush’s 2004 campaign. Dowd’s political career also saw him working for high-profile figures such as California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006. Over the years, Dowd advised several political figures across party lines, including Texas Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock.

Before his tenure with MSNBC, Dowd worked as a political analyst for ABC News, providing political commentary and insights on major elections and political events. In recent years, he even announced a run for Texas lieutenant governor as a Democrat, though he did not secure the position.

FAQs

Q: Why was Matthew Dowd fired from MSNBC?
A: Matthew Dowd was fired after making controversial remarks suggesting that Charlie Kirk’s speech may have contributed to his assassination. The network deemed his comments inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable.

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Q: What did Matthew Dowd say about Charlie Kirk?
A: Dowd described Charlie Kirk as “one of the most divisive” figures who often used “hate speech aimed at certain groups.” He also suggested that hateful words lead to hateful actions, implying that Kirk’s speech could have contributed to the violence.

Q: How did MSNBC respond to Dowd’s remarks?
A: MSNBC issued a public apology for Dowd’s comments, calling them inappropriate and unacceptable. The network also terminated Dowd’s position as senior political analyst.

Q: What is Matthew Dowd’s background in politics?
A: Matthew Dowd is a former chief strategist for George W. Bush’s 2004 presidential campaign. He has also worked for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and several Democrats, including Texas Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock. Dowd previously worked as a political analyst for ABC News and ran for Texas lieutenant governor as a Democrat.