Portnoy Criticizes Dowd’s Comments on Kirk Shooting

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, has openly criticized former MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd, labeling him a “left-handed madman” for making what he termed “insensitive and unacceptable” remarks regarding Charlie Kirk after a filming incident on Wednesday.

Kirk, known as a conservative influencer and founder of Turning Point USA, was recorded during an event at Utah Valley University’s City Hall.

During his time on MSNBC, Dowd was prompted to comment on the tragedy surrounding Kirk’s situation.

The left-leaning commentator controversially suggested that Kirk could have been accidentally shot by one of his own supporters celebrating with a gun.

Portnoy responded on social media, stating, “Hey @msnbc, I’m ruling out the possibility that it was one of Charlie Kirk’s supporters who accidentally shot him in a congratulatory gunshot.” This was shared following the initial news about Kirk’s shooting.

As graphic footage of Kirk became widespread online, Portnoy expressed, “Anyone who’s happy about this is a disgusting person.”

Meanwhile, Dowd, 64, remained steadfast in his controversial stance. He mentioned that “hateful thoughts can lead to hateful words, which lead to hateful behavior.”

Anchor Katie Tar had introduced Kirk as a “polarized” figure before his death was confirmed, interrupting Dowd to inform him that Kirk had passed away.

In another post, Portnoy shared a video, emphasizing Dowd’s commentary as misguided and reiterated his perception of Dowd as a “left-handed madman.”

“A true, unhinged rant from a left-handed madman,” Portnoy remarked, suggesting it’s alarming to think someone could imply that opposing beliefs warrant a death sentence.

Portnoy further criticized those who failed to regard the event as “one of the darkest days in American history,” saying they contributed to the problem.

In response to the backlash, MSNBC issued an apology. Network president Rebecca Kutler called Dowd’s remarks “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable,” reinforcing the notion that there should be no place for violence in political discourse.

Dowd also chose to apologize for his comments, acknowledging the significant backlash.

He expressed his condolences to Kirk’s family and clarified his earlier statements, admitting that his tone and phrasing were inappropriate.

Shortly after, Dowd was terminated by MSNBC.

Kirk was fatally shot roughly twenty minutes after he presented at an “American Comeback Tour” event, where he discussed significant issues surrounding gun violence.

Witnesses reported that the suspect was dressed in jeans, a black shirt, and a black vest, armed with a long rifle.

The FBI has since questioned individuals of interest but has let them go as the search for the assailant continues.

Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was well-regarded for his “prove wrong” debates, inviting challenges to his viewpoints.

He is survived by his wife, former Miss Arizona Erica Franzbe, and their two young children.