Bill Maher Reacts to Shooting of Charlie Kirk
Liberal commentator Bill Maher expressed his deep sorrow over the murder of conservative activist and Turning Point co-founder, Charlie Kirk. He contrasted Kirk’s willingness to engage in dialogue with some conservatives who prefer to silence leftist activists.
“I might have a drink or two more than usual today,” said Maher during a conversation with Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan. “I don’t know when this is airing, but today is the day Charlie Kirk was shot, and I can’t stop thinking about it.”
Kirk’s killing at a campus event shocked many and reignited discussions about the importance of political discourse.
Corgan echoed Maher’s sentiments, replying, “I can’t either.”
“And we shouldn’t,” Maher continued, addressing those on the left who celebrated Kirk’s death. “If you’re on the other side and don’t care just because he was on the wrong team, what’s wrong with this country?”
Maher reaffirmed that he still views himself as an “old-fashioned liberal,” although he is increasingly critical of what he perceives as a far-left dominance in contemporary progressive politics.
“I always told my woke friends, we voted for the same person. You’re part of the reason she lost,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the divide between conservatives and the far-left regarding political dialogue.
“There are people they don’t want to engage with,” Maher noted. “Charlie Kirk was always willing to participate. I spoke to him here—you can say what you want about the right, but they’re open to discussion. The left often prefers not to engage.”
Maher stressed that differing opinions don’t strip away our shared humanity. “I didn’t vote for him, and Charlie and I do not see eye to eye politically, but he was just sitting here. He’s a human being. He isn’t a monster.”
“And a husband and father,” Corgan added.
“Exactly. I appreciate all of them. They’re often lovely when you meet them in person. They’re not crazy; they just have different views,” Maher said.
Corgan agreed, emphasizing, “Violence must be off the table, and peace cannot be the expectation.” He warned about the dangers of escalating political violence in the country.
