MSNBC Avoids Live Coverage of Charlie Kirk’s Medal of Freedom Award
On Tuesday, MSNBC chose not to present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, following the death of former President Donald Trump. This decision drew criticism, particularly since some executives had recently called for improvements in how the network covers his assassination.
Kirk, who would have celebrated his 32nd birthday that day, was shot last month during the “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. The award ceremony in the Rose Garden was notably the first major event there since Trump mandated renovations earlier this year.
Even though MSNBC couldn’t air the ceremony live on its main network, host Nicole Wallace managed to briefly update viewers about the proceedings.
Comcast leadership had previously reprimanded staff over the network’s reporting on Kirk’s death, which they felt misaligned with their goals of fostering civil discourse.
During her broadcast, Wallace remarked, “Before we leave, I want to show you what’s happening in the White House right now. Donald Trump has awarded conservative activist Charlie Kirk the highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Today marks exactly five weeks since Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a university in Utah. His wife, Erica Kirk, will accept the award on his behalf.” However, viewers only briefly saw the president’s speech without audio.
Unfortunately, MSNBC didn’t air Erica Kirk’s heartfelt tribute to her late husband, opting instead for a lengthy discussion on the Pentagon’s new media policies. Wallace did mention the significance of the event, noting viewers were missing out on a historic moment.
She later conveyed, “Moments ago, Donald Trump awarded the Medal of Freedom to murdered conservative activist Charlie Kirk. His widow, Erica Kirk, accepted the medal.” In accepting the award, Erica thanked Trump and Kirk’s team.
When contacted for comment, an MSNBC representative directed inquiries to the network’s YouTube channel, where the ceremony was being streamed.
Meanwhile, MSNBC also dismissed political analyst Matthew Dowd for his controversial remarks regarding Kirk’s death. Dowd had characterized Kirk’s “hateful” comments as contributing factors to the tragedy, suggesting it might have been a “celebratory shooting” by a supporter.
The backlash against these statements prompted Comcast executives, including CEO Brian Roberts, to send a memo urging staff to engage in more respectful discourse. They expressed sorrow over Kirk’s death, recognizing his role as a father and advocate for public debate, and emphasized the need for unity in the face of division. They stated, “There is no place for violence or hatred in our society.”
Despite these reminders from the higher-ups, MSNBC chose not to air Erica Kirk’s acceptance of her husband’s honor. This omission raised eyebrows among several critics.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is given to individuals deemed to have made significant contributions to U.S. security, world peace, or cultural endeavors.
