Political analyst Matthew Dowd has been fired from MSNBC after making controversial remarks in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

According to Variety, Dowd suggested that Kirk himself bore responsibility for the attack — a comment that sparked immediate outrage. Critics across social media and beyond called his remarks insensitive, inappropriate, and disrespectful during a time of national mourning.

MSNBC moved quickly to distance itself from the controversy, confirming that Dowd is no longer affiliated with the network.

The firing underscores the rising tension in political media, where commentary can ignite fierce backlash and swift consequences. While some defended Dowd’s right to express his opinion, many others saw his statement as crossing a line, particularly given the gravity of the tragedy.

The dismissal marks another shake-up for MSNBC, which has faced criticism in recent years over how it handles outspoken political commentators.