Former President Joe Biden is facing a wave of criticism after offering condolences for the murder of Charlie Kirk. The 31-year-old conservative activist and popular influencer was tragically shot and killed on Wednesday, September 10, while at a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah.
The shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. local time during a student Q&A session. Shortly after the news broke, Biden took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his condolences, stating, “There is no place in our country for this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones.”
However, this message was met with an immediate and furious backlash from many online users. In the comments section of his post, numerous individuals accused the former president of hypocrisy and for his part in creating a political climate that they believe led to the violence.
“You fueled the violence shame on you!” one user wrote, while another said, “From the guy who promotes constant hatred towards MAGA.” The sentiment was echoed by others, with comments like, “His blood is on your hands. You democrats wanted this. You are all sick and evil,” and “It’s your side Joe. All the hate the left spews.”
Several critics pointed directly to Biden’s past rhetoric regarding “MAGA extremists” and political division. “You need to CONDEMN YOUR PARTY for their violent rhetoric that led to this,” one user commented. Another claimed, “Your sympathy is fake. Your intent is fake. You have been nothing but a fake.”
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump also weighed in on the murder, blaming the “radical left” for the crime. In a video statement, Trump pledged to hold those responsible accountable, saying, “My administration will find each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity and to other political violence, including the organizations that fund it and support it.”
Charlie Kirk, a prominent voice in conservative youth activism and a loyal supporter of Donald Trump, was known for his appearances on college campuses nationwide. His death has sent shockwaves through the political world and has intensified the national debate over the escalating political polarization and violence in the United States.