Senator Ted Cruz Challenges CNN’s Kaitlan Collins on Motivation in Kirk’s Assassination

Senator Ted Cruz expressed strong disagreement with CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins regarding her statement that authorities “don’t have a motive yet” for the assassination of Charlie Kirk, co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA.

This discussion took place on Tuesday, just days after Kirk was shot at a Utah Valley University event. During the segment on “The Source,” Cruz challenged the notion, putting into question the motives of the alleged shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.

Collins stated, “We don’t have a motive yet. We don’t know yet. We’re waiting…” regarding the investigation into Kirk’s assassination.

Cruz quickly countered, questioning the validity of CNN’s stance. “Of course, we know,” he said. “Really, that’s CNN’s position? He just happened to fire the gun in celebration?” His comments likely referred to statements made by political analyst Matthew Dowd on MSNBC, who suggested that the shooting might have been celebratory in nature. Dowd was later terminated from MSNBC for various comments related to Kirk’s death.

Despite Cruz’s assertions, Collins maintained her point, arguing that law enforcement hadn’t provided a specific motive, even though they had shared significant evidence. Cruz, however, insisted that claim was inaccurate.

“They’ve said that he was a left-wing activist who hated Charlie Kirk,” Cruz emphasized.

Collins maintained her position, indicating that she was highlighting a lack of a formal motive put forth by law enforcement. Cruz responded emphatically, “That statement is false. What you just said is false.”

Collins responded, “Senator, with all due respect, you know exactly what I’m saying. I’m not arguing with you politically…”

The investigation is gathering evidence, including witness statements, markings on the weapon used, and messages exchanged between Robinson and his partner. Reports indicate inscriptions on the bullet casings such as “Hey fascist! Catch!” and other phrases linked to specific online communities.

A family member of Robinson disclosed that he had expressed negative feelings towards Kirk, alleging he was “full of hate,” particularly about an upcoming Turning Point USA event. Additionally, an alleged text message from Robinson to his partner indicated a determined reasoning behind the shooting, stating, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out.” Utah Governor Spencer Cox noted that Robinson appeared to be deeply influenced by leftist ideology.