Donald Trump is under fire for an “insensitive” remark about Charlie Kirk’s tragic death. The 31-year-old activist was gunned down on stage in Utah. Here’s the full story.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is facing major backlash after making a controversial remark about the tragic death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Kirk, just 31 years old, was assassinated nine days ago while speaking at Utah Valley University during the first stop of his American Comeback Tour. He leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two young children.
Trump’s Comment Sparks Outrage
During a recent interview with Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum, Trump appeared to make light of Kirk’s death. When MacCallum reflected on Kirk’s belief that “there was no such thing as hate speech,” Trump interrupted with:
“Yeah, he might not be saying that now.”
The remark drew swift criticism online, with one clip circulating widely on social media. Commentators branded it “worse than Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue” — referencing Kimmel’s own controversy earlier this year.
Social Media Reaction
Outraged users flooded X (formerly Twitter):
“Putting words in a dead man’s mouth for political gain is disgusting,” wrote one user.
Another added: “Wild how cracking jokes gets people suspended, but Trump can say this live on TV while running for president.”
A third commented: “Proof they don’t even care about the man or his ideas — only using his death for politics.”
MacCallum: “Charlie said, ‘There is no such thing as hate speech.'”
Trump: “He might not be saying that now.” pic.twitter.com/THAtebvIRD
— The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) September 18, 2025
Trump Recalls Last Conversation With Kirk
Despite the backlash, Trump also spoke warmly about Kirk, recalling their final conversation.
“The last time I spoke to him, he said, ‘Sir, could you get to Phoenix tomorrow?’ I told him, ‘Charlie, I’m the President — you can’t just call me like that!’ But I usually ended up going. He was a great guy. He didn’t deserve this.”
Memorial Service Planned
A public memorial for Charlie Kirk is scheduled this Sunday, September 21, at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, which holds more than 60,000 people. Trump and several government officials are expected to attend.
