

The political divides after political violence
31 snips Sep 12, 2025
Naftali Ben-David, a senior national political correspondent, and Maeve Reston, a national political reporter based in California, discuss the recent shooting of conservative figure Charlie Kirk and its alarming implications for political violence in America. They analyze how leaders from both parties are responding, the chilling effect such violence has on democracy, and the contrasting rhetoric that fuels division. The conversation also touches on the historical context of political violence, reminding us of its enduring impact on civic engagement and discourse.
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Immediate Political Blame Shapes Public Reaction
- Presidents usually use tragedies to appeal for unity, but Trump blamed the left immediately after Kirk's death.
- Naftali Ben-David says that choice diverged from a broader, unifying presidential response and intensified partisan framing.
Kirk Built A Youth Political Movement
- Maeve Reston describes Charlie Kirk as a charismatic, combative organizer who built Turning Point USA into a youth movement.
- She notes he used campus appearances, social media, and debates to galvanize young conservatives.
War Rhetoric Lowers Bar For Violence
- Naftali explains that framing politics as war normalizes killing and rejects compromise.
- He warns this rhetoric risks cycles of retribution and escalation across both sides.