The Playbook Podcast From 'The Conversation': “A uniquely dangerous time”: The aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s killing
Sep 14, 2025
Join John F. Harris, Global Editor-in-Chief at Politico and expert in American political history, as he delves into the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk. They explore the alarming rise of political violence, the implications for free speech, and the challenges journalism faces during such crises. Harris connects the dots between historical patterns of political violence and contemporary polarization, advocating for constructive dialogue to bridge divides. He emphasizes the responsibility of truth in public discourse, especially in these tumultuous times.
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Personal Encounters And Background
- Dasha Burns recounts interviewing Charlie Kirk multiple times and describes exchanges that were intense but cordial.
- She also shares her personal ties to political violence, having witnessed an assassination attempt on President Trump and immigrated from Ukraine after the Soviet breakup.
Witnessing An Assassination Attempt
- Dasha shares she witnessed the assassination attempt on President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania.
- She connects that memory to fear about political violence and loss of security in America.
Violence Is Immediately Politicized
- John Harris observes that horrific events quickly become politicized and used as weapons or shields in nonstop partisan argument.
- He says the natural currents of ideological and cultural division almost immediately reassert themselves after such events.