‘If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it!’ A universal statement used by the world. Following the death of Charlie Kirk, MSNBC decided to let go of one of their political analysts, Matthew Dowd.
Matthew had made some comments on television which many people saw as insensitive.
What Was it That Matthew Dowd Said?
Matthew made comments about Charlie Kirk’s shooting, noting that his actions and demeanour led to his own killing.
“And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions,” Dowd said on air.
Even though Dowd did not directly make accusations, he implied that Kirk’s rhetoric played a role in what transpired.
Backlash Builds Quickly
Many political figures came through and said that Dowd’s comments crossed the line by making it seem like it was the victim’s fault.
Shortly after the comments were made by Dowd, social media flooded with anger. Within a few hours, people had requested MSNBC to address the situation.
MSNBC Responds With an Apology
MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler issued a public apology:
“During our breaking news coverage of the shooting of Charlie Kirk, Matthew Dowd made comments that were inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable,” she said in a statement. “We apologize for his statements, as has he. There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”
This move showed that MSNBC did not want to be associated with negative comments made about Kirk and wanted to ensure that citizens are aware they did not support it either.
Dowd’s Personal Apology
Eventually, Dowd decided to issue his own apology. He tried to explain that he had no intention of blaming Kirk for his own attack, but rather to emphasize on the culture of American politics.
Dowd acknowledged that he should have been more mindful when making the statements. Even though he apologised, MSNBC did not change their decision.
MSNBC Firm in Their Decision
MSNBC had confirmed that they have fired Dowd. The network understood concerns of citizens and made the decision as they wished to keep up to their name. By cutting ties, the network signalled that it wanted to maintain strict standards, particularly when reporting on tragedies.
Why This Story Matters
It is important to note that journalists and media personnel play an important role when it comes to disclosing news, and it is important for them to be factual and unbiased.
When it comes to breaking tragic news, members of the public expect this news to be delivered with facts ad empathy. The reporter should not be making statements that come across as blaming the victims.
And yes, social media will catch anything! Dowd’s comments spread within minutes and received backlash from thousands. MSNBC was then forced to deal with this.
Looking Ahead
The media is urged to be cautious when reporting sensitive information and ensure that they are factual in reporting. Be mindful that their family members and friends of the victims who are watching and grieving. Aim to make things easier for them rather than more traumatic.
The death of Charlie Kirk is still under investigation. Law enforcement officials are actively working to find evidence regarding the case and will eventually emerge with details. Why? Who? And what should be done to prevent such from happening in the future.
MSNBC has taken this matter seriously and acted in accordance with morals and values of the network.
This shows how one comment can cost a person their entire career.