The Fox News Rundown Extra: Jason Chaffetz On His Ongoing 'Struggle' After Witnessing Charlie Kirk's Murder
Sep 21, 2025
Jason Chaffetz, a former U.S. congressman from Utah and current Fox News contributor, shares his harrowing experience of witnessing Charlie Kirk's assassination on campus. He discusses the intense emotional aftermath and the ongoing threat of political violence. Chaffetz examines the complexities of free speech in relation to violent threats and the consequences of incendiary rhetoric. He also highlights how public events may change due to safety concerns, and offers insights on promoting civil debate amid rising nihilism in today's political climate.
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Witnessing The Shot And Immediate Panic
- Jason Chaffetz witnessed the shot and saw Charlie Kirk get hit almost instantly.
- He described widespread panic as everyone hit the ground, screamed, and ran while fearing more shots.
Immediate Family Evacuation
- Chaffetz called his wife and daughter immediately and told them to get in their cars and drive away.
- He moved down stairs, got to his car, and ensured his family evacuated quickly amid uncertainty about additional danger.
Threats Should Be Prosecuted, Hate Not Always
- Chaffetz distinguishes between hateful speech and direct threats that should be prosecuted.
- He argues many threats go unprosecuted, emboldening perpetrators and increasing real-world violence risk.