Fox News host Howard Kurtz stunned viewers during his final broadcast of MediaBuzz on Sunday by taking aim at Charlie Kirk — just days after the beloved conservative activist was assassinated during a campus event.
Kurtz, who praised Fox for giving him “extraordinary independence” over his 12-year tenure, shocked many by criticizing Kirk while leading a heated panel discussion on the political violence rocking America.
Panel Sparks Outrage
Joining Kurtz were Fox Business correspondent Charlie Gasparino and Washington Examiner reporter Sarah Bedford. Bedford argued that left-wing extremism has been downplayed by the mainstream media, despite the escalating violence.
“The radical left absolutely has a growing extremism problem,” Bedford said. “It’s not being reported fairly, and the coverage doesn’t match the threat. There is violence on both sides, but it’s not equal — and the left is being let off the hook.”
Bedford’s remarks hit home for many viewers who feel the media ignores the political hatred aimed at conservatives, especially after the cold-blooded murder of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA.
Kurtz Criticizes Kirk
Instead of focusing on the anti-conservative climate Bedford highlighted, Kurtz pivoted and brought up one of Kirk’s old quotes that has long been criticized by liberals.
“Charlie Kirk was not a saint,” Kurtz said. “Two years ago, he stated it was worth it to accept a few tragic gun deaths each year to preserve our Second Amendment rights.”
Kurtz added that he wasn’t excusing violence or justifying Kirk’s assassination but emphasized that “no one has a perfect record.”
This unexpected criticism angered many conservatives who saw Kirk as a champion of free speech, religious liberty, and traditional American values.
Condemns Sick Celebrations
While Kirk’s comments stirred debate, Kurtz strongly denounced those celebrating his murder online.
“There are sick individuals posting messages of joy over this tragedy,” Kurtz said. “It’s inhumane and deeply infuriating.”
His condemnation comes as President Donald Trump and other conservative leaders have called for a national reckoning on political violence and a renewed push to protect free speech.
Why This Matters
The assassination of Charlie Kirk has become a flashpoint for conservatives nationwide, highlighting:
- The mainstream media’s bias against the right
- The growing threat of left-wing radicalism
- The ongoing fight to defend the Second Amendment
- The dangerous climate where political speech is met with violence
Many conservatives see Fox News’ willingness to criticize Kirk so soon after his death as a disturbing sign of internal division within the movement — and a warning that even beloved figures aren’t safe from attacks, both physical and verbal.
Bottom Line:
Kirk’s assassination is a wake-up call for America. While the left continues to demonize conservatives, President Trump and his supporters are doubling down to defend free speech, protect our communities, and uphold our constitutional rights.