Dave Portnoy Slams MSNBC Analyst as ‘Lefty Lunatic’ Over Charlie Kirk Assassination Rhetoric

Dave Portnoy Blasts MSNBC Analyst Over Remarks on Charlie Kirk Assassination
(Approx. 650 words; image placements noted)

[Image: Dave Portnoy criticized MSNBC’s coverage.]
Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot during a rally at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, sparking outrage after MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd made controversial remarks suggesting Kirk’s rhetoric may have contributed to the violence.

The Shooting and Aftermath
Kirk was addressing a crowd at UVU on September 10 when a gunman opened fire from the rooftop of the nearby Losee Center, approximately 200 feet away. A single bullet struck Kirk in the neck, causing catastrophic injuries. He collapsed instantly and later died at the hospital.

Surveillance footage captured a figure fleeing the rooftop after the shooting. Authorities initially detained an elderly man but released him after determining he was not connected. The FBI has not announced any suspects as of publication.

[Image: Surveillance image of a figure on the Losee Center rooftop.]

MSNBC’s Controversial Coverage
During breaking news coverage, MSNBC host Katy Tur labeled Kirk “divisive” and “polarizing.” Political contributor Matthew Dowd went further, speculating without evidence that the shooter could have been a Kirk supporter firing a “celebratory gunshot.” He added, “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions… That’s the unfortunate environment we’re in.”

Backlash and Apology
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy slammed Dowd and MSNBC on social media: “I’m gonna rule out that a supporter shot Kirk in celebration. This is an unhinged rant from a lefty lunatic… RIP Charlie Kirk. If you don’t view this as a dark day in American history, you’re part of the problem.” OutKick’s Clay Travis condemned MSNBC’s remarks as “despicable” and accused the left of fostering violence.

Facing widespread criticism, MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler issued an apology: “Matthew Dowd’s comments were inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable. We apologize… There is no place for violence in America.”

[Image: Charlie Kirk speaking at a rally prior to the shooting.]

Kirk’s Legacy and Family
Kirk, a prominent MAGA advocate and founder of Turning Point USA, leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and two young children. The couple married in 2019 and recently celebrated their fourth anniversary.

Scene of the Attack
Video from the rally shows Kirk in a gazebo wearing a white T-shirt moments before the shooting. A gunshot rings out, and he clutches his neck as blood pours from the wound. Attendees rushed to aid him amid chaos. UVU confirmed the shot originated from the Losee Center rooftop, though the suspect remains at large.

Political Reactions
Former President Donald Trump mourned Kirk on Truth Social: “Charlie Kirk is dead… No one understood the heart of America’s youth better. Melania and I send our love to his family.”

[Image: Trump’s tribute to Kirk on Truth Social.]

The incident has intensified debates over political rhetoric and violence. While officials urge patience pending investigation, critics argue media figures like Dowd risk inflaming tensions further. Kirk’s funeral arrangements are pending.

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