ABC News Reporter Issues Apology

On Wednesday, ABC News reporter Matthew Gutman expressed regret after comments he made regarding the assassination case involving Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. He had described the text messages exchanged between Kirk’s transgender boyfriend and the suspected assassin as “impressive.”

During a segment on “ABC News Live,” Gutman discussed how the 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson, professed his love for his boyfriend, Lance Twiggs, and his desire to protect him after the act. Following backlash for referring to the messages as “touching,” he took to X to clarify his stance, stating he regretted his choice of words and indicated he condemned Robinson’s actions.

“Yesterday, I tried to draw a stark contrast between the brutal assassination of Charlie Kirk—who devoted his efforts to public discourse—and the disturbing personal texts brought up by lawyers during a press conference,” Gutman explained. “I sincerely regret that my phrasing did not make this clear. But make no mistake, I absolutely denounce this horrific crime and the anguish it has caused for Charlie Kirk’s family, witnesses at UVU, and the countless individuals he’s inspired.”

2. I deeply regret that my words didn’t clarify it. However, there is a suspicion of zero here. I clearly denounce this horrifying crime and the pain that caused the Charlie Kirk’s family, those who were forced to witness it at UVU, and the millions of people he inspired.

– Matt Gutman (@mattgutmanabc) September 17, 2025

Utah County Attorney Jeffrey Gray disclosed the charges against Robinson and mentioned the text messages. When asked about the rationale behind the crime, Robinson allegedly claimed he felt “sufficient” hatred toward Kirk, asserting that “some hatred cannot be negotiated.”

Robinson frequently described Twiggs as “my love,” expressing his intent to keep him safe. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury, and obstruction of justice, among others. Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty.

Despite claims from some liberals linking Robinson to conservative Republican ideology based on familial background, his parents stated he aligned more with left-leaning views, identifying as “more gay and right-oriented.” Robinson allegedly told his parents, “There was so much evil, [Kirk] spreads too much hatred” after admitting to the murder.