President Donald Trump quickly placed blame for conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination on the rhetoric of the “radical left,” despite no evidence yet indicating the shooter’s motive.
In a video message posted by the White House on Wednesday evening, Trump mourned the loss of Kirk, a fierce ally of the president’s who helped Trump build support among young conservatives.
“I am filled with grief and anger at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk on a college campus in Utah,” Trump said. “Charlie inspired millions, and tonight all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror.”
Trump continued: “He’s a martyr for truth and freedom, and there’s never been anyone who was so respected by youth.”
After praising Kirk for his commitment to his Christian faith, Trump pivoted to blaming the shooting on the “radical left,” claiming that people who described Kirk as a Nazi are “directly responsible.”
