Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro criticized President Donald Trump this week after the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Shapiro said the president “missed the mark” in his Oval Office address by blaming only the “radical left” and not condemning all political violence.
Kirk was killed at a Turning Point event on the campus of Utah Valley University. Investigators recovered a rifle in nearby woods and released images of a suspect. The FBI said the attack appeared deliberate and appealed for tips from the public.
In his video statement, Trump claimed harsh rhetoric from the left was fueling violence. He said, “This rhetoric is responsible for terrorism in our country, and it must stop right now.” He also said investigators were making “big progress” in their search for the shooter.
Shapiro pushed back, warning that leaders cannot pick and choose which violence to condemn. He called Trump’s message dangerous, saying it risks deepening divisions instead of calming the public. He urged leaders to use words that reduce anger, not stoke it.
EXCLUSIVE: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro criticized President Trump for “cherry-picking” political violence in his Oval Office address after Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on Wednesday.
“The president missed the mark last night in his Oval Office address. He should be… pic.twitter.com/jeTrbMW8pz
— ABC News (@ABC) September 11, 2025
The governor pointed to his own recent experience with political violence. In April, an arsonist set fire to the governor’s residence while his family slept inside. The suspect now faces charges including attempted murder, terrorism, and aggravated assault.
Trump and many conservative figures hailed Kirk as a martyr for free speech. Right-wing outlets amplified calls for justice, while some warned against retaliation. Critics argued Trump’s response used the tragedy for politics rather than unity.
Officials said no motive has been confirmed in the Utah killing. Witnesses reported seeing a shooter on a nearby roof before Kirk was struck. Authorities are reviewing video and continuing their active investigation.
National leaders from both parties issued condolences and asked for calm. Some lawmakers canceled appearances and raised security around public events. Organizers said they were reassessing protocols for upcoming rallies and campus gatherings.
Experts cautioned that heated political rhetoric raises risks of violence. They urged social media platforms to remove violent posts and for leaders to adopt language that de-escalates. Analysts warned that unchecked hostility could inspire more attacks.
Trump pledged to honor Kirk posthumously and vowed to investigate groups he blamed for creating a culture of hate. But he did not name specific organizations or outline clear steps. Opponents said this showed he was politicizing the tragedy.
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Shapiro closed by calling for bipartisan unity against political violence. He said condemning only one side sends the wrong message. His words echoed growing fears about the safety of leaders, activists, and students in today’s charged climate.
Federal and local officials continue to pursue the investigation. Authorities released more surveillance footage and renewed calls for information. As the search continues, leaders face pressure to lower tensions and ensure public debate can continue safely.
