Dave Portnoy condemned former MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd for making “insensitive” and speculative comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has ignited a political firestorm by slamming former MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd for what he called a “truly unhinged rant” regarding the tragic assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Dowd, a longtime political strategist and media personality, was fired by MSNBC after making comments during a live segment that appeared to speculate irresponsibly about the cause of Kirk’s death.

The remarks were swiftly condemned by viewers, political commentators, and ultimately MSNBC itself.

The incident that set off the controversy occurred on September 10, 2025, at approximately 12:20 p.m. local time in Orem, Utah.

Charlie Kirk, 31, founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, was speaking at a student-focused rally on the campus of Utah Valley University as part of his “American Comeback Tour.”

Witnesses report that Kirk was addressing a question from a student about mass shootings in America when a shot rang out.

Within seconds, Kirk collapsed on stage, having been fatally struck in the neck by a high-velocity rifle round fired from a nearby rooftop.

Utah authorities, including Orem Police and the FBI, confirmed later that day that Kirk had been the victim of a targeted assassination. Surveillance footage showed a lone suspect fleeing the rooftop area shortly after the shot was fired.

No arrests have been made as of Thursday evening, though two persons of interest were briefly detained and released. The motive remains under investigation, but the political nature of Kirk’s work has led many to believe this was a calculated act of political violence.

Just hours after the shooting, MSNBC cut to live coverage, during which guest analyst Matthew Dowd made a shocking and speculative statement. “We don’t know if this was a supporter shooting their gun off in celebration,” Dowd said.

“We have no idea … We don’t know any of the full details of this.” His remarks appeared to suggest the possibility that Kirk was accidentally shot by one of his own supporters, despite no evidence to support such a claim.

Dowd’s comments sparked immediate outrage across social media and were quickly picked up by major outlets.

Among the most vocal critics was Dave Portnoy, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to blast the remarks as not only reckless but inhumane. “Truly an unhinged rant from a lefty lunatic,” Portnoy posted.

“Imagine saying somebody basically deserves to get murdered for their political beliefs just cause you don’t agree with him.” Portnoy, who has become increasingly outspoken on political matters in recent years, added, “Anybody who is happy about this is a disgusting human.”

By Wednesday evening, MSNBC issued a statement calling Dowd’s comments “insensitive and unacceptable,” confirming that he had been terminated.

Network President Rebecca Kutler said, “In moments of tragedy, our priority must be compassion and clarity. Mr. Dowd’s speculation during an active investigation does not reflect the values of this organization.”

The network did not clarify whether Dowd would be allowed back as a guest in the future.

Dowd, a former chief political analyst for ABC News and a campaign strategist for George W. Bush’s 2004 reelection campaign, attempted to clarify his remarks in a now-deleted follow-up post. “I did not intend to assign blame to Mr. Kirk or his supporters.

I regret the timing of my comments and the pain they may have caused to his family, friends, and supporters.” However, the apology was widely panned as insincere or too little, too late.

Kirk, who rose to prominence in his early twenties by launching Turning Point USA, became a leading voice in right-wing student activism.

He frequently appeared on Fox News, co-hosted a podcast with Donald Trump Jr., and had personal ties with numerous high-profile conservative figures.

His confrontational style and strong stances on issues like gun rights, immigration, and “woke” culture made him a lightning rod for controversy but also a hero to many on the right.

At the time of his death, Kirk was traveling across the country promoting civic engagement among young conservatives and building momentum ahead of the 2026 midterms.

His “American Comeback Tour” had visited over a dozen college campuses and was drawing increasingly large crowds.

His wife, Erika Kirk, released a short statement on social media following the shooting: “Charlie died doing what he loved — speaking truth and fighting for our country. We ask for privacy and prayers during this unimaginable time.”

The response to Kirk’s assassination has highlighted America’s deepening political divide. While leaders from both parties condemned the attack, some critics on the left have been accused of showing indifference or worse.

A small number of social media posts celebrating Kirk’s death drew further outrage, with Portnoy and others calling on platforms to crack down on politically motivated hate speech.

Security at political events is now under renewed scrutiny, especially at universities.

Utah Valley University issued a statement expressing condolences and pledging full cooperation with the investigation, though many students and attendees have questioned the lack of visible security at the rally.

According to on-site witnesses, there were no metal detectors and minimal police presence prior to the shooting.

Former President Donald Trump, a close ally of Kirk, issued a statement calling the assassination “a dark day for free speech in America.” He added, “Charlie was a patriot, a warrior, and a great American who loved this country with every fiber of his being.”

As the investigation continues, federal and state law enforcement are urging anyone with information to come forward. A \$100,000 reward has been offered for information leading to an arrest.

A memorial service for Kirk is being planned in Phoenix, Arizona, his home state, and is expected to draw thousands of supporters, political allies, and conservative media figures.

In the meantime, Portnoy’s fiery defense of Kirk and his takedown of Dowd have further solidified his growing role as a cultural and political commentator.

Known best for building Barstool into a media empire, Portnoy has increasingly weighed in on issues far beyond sports and entertainment.

His blunt message this week resonated with many on the right: political violence should never be tolerated — and those who excuse it, even subtly, must be held accountable.