Cable news networks provided extensive coverage of the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, with each outlet reflecting its editorial slant while reporting the breaking news. Here's an overview of how Fox News, MSNBC, CNN, and other sources—covered the event:
Fox News: Fox News broke the news at 2:49 p.m. ET, with anchors Sandra Smith and Bill Melugin leading coverage. Former Rep. Jason Chaffetz, present at the event, provided a firsthand account, describing the chaos as the crowd scattered amid screams. Fox emphasized Kirk’s prominence as a Turning Point USA founder and Trump ally, framing the shooting as a potential consequence of heated political rhetoric. Posts on X from Fox highlighted Kirk’s recent appearance on Fox & Friends and Turning Point USA’s statement mourning his loss, alongside commentator Mark Levin’s call for justice, suggesting a narrative of political targeting.
MSNBC: MSNBC began coverage at approximately 2:50 p.m. ET, with anchor Katy Tur leading the report. The network faced criticism for politicizing the event, as Tur speculated about the Trump administration potentially using the shooting to justify policy actions. Guest Matthew Dowd’s comments were deemed “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable” by MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler, prompting an apology. Utah Governor Spencer Cox’s statement, aired by MSNBC, called the shooting a “political assassination” and a “tragic day for our nation,” reflecting the gravity of the event. MSNBC’s coverage trended on X due to controversial remarks but also included bipartisan reaction
CNN: CNN’s coverage started at 2:50 p.m. ET during CNN News Central, with anchors Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar joined by senior White House correspondent Kristen Holmes and political director David Chalian. The network focused on factual reporting, noting Kirk’s role as a conservative activist and the circumstances of the shooting during a Q&A session. CNN’s approach was relatively measured, emphasizing Kirk’s influence and the bipartisan condemnation of the violence, though less ideologically charged than Fox or MSNBC.
Other Major News Sources:
- CBS News: CBS delivered two special reports anchored by Maurice DuBois at 3:02 p.m. and 4:43 p.m. ET, with analysis from chief Washington analyst Robert Costa, who had reported on Kirk extensively. The network focused on the shooting’s impact and Kirk’s background.
- ABC News: ABC provided breaking news updates, including eyewitness accounts from a mother and daughter at the event and reactions from Utah Congressman Mike Kennedy. Coverage highlighted Kirk’s family, his role at Turning Point USA, and bipartisan grief from leaders like President Trump.
- NBC News: NBC reported the shooting as a live event, noting Kirk’s death and the university’s response, including evacuation and a suspect in custody. The network included a profile of Kirk and reactions from lawmakers like Senators Chuck Grassley and Ted Cruz.
- Deseret News: The Utah outlet critiqued media responses, praising most for reflecting national shock but criticizing MSNBC’s politicized coverage. It noted Kyle Smith’s satirical X post comparing modern media to hypothetical coverage of JFK’s assassination.