Liberal CNN contributor Van Jones condemned political violence after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Jones praised Kirk for attempting to engage in a civil debate with him the day before the attack, highlighting his efforts to foster respectful dialogue on crime and race, despite their differences. The two had previously clashed over the killing of a Ukrainian refugee and its racial implications, with Jones criticizing Kirk’s position that the killing of a white woman by a Black man was motivated by anti-white hatred. Kirk, however, invited Jones on his show to have a discussion, stating, “Hey, Van, I mean it, I’d love to have you on my show to have a respectful conversation about crime and race. I would be a gentleman as I know you would be as well.” Unfortunately, before Jones could respond, Kirk was killed, seemingly assassinated for his words, though the killer’s exact motives are still under investigation.
Jones condemned the political violence, noting that the incident has sparked bipartisan warnings on Capitol Hill about the dangers of a violent political climate. He emphasized that political murder has no place in society, reflecting on his own experiences with political unrest in the 1960s. The tragedy has also prompted reactions from public figures, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Josh Duhamel, who denounced political violence following the attack. Kirk’s memorial service on Sunday drew a massive crowd at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, underscoring his impact as a rising star in the conservative movement. Meanwhile, JD Vance expressed no unity with those who celebrate Kirk’s assassination, calling it a divisive act. As the investigation continues, the incident has reignited debates about the role of rhetoric and discourse in American politics, with many calling for a return to peaceful, respectful dialogue.