Morning Joe Jimmy Kimmel seeks to smooth tensions and takes aim at Trump in first show since ABC suspension
Sep 24, 2025
Joining the discussion is Mike Barnicle, an MSNBC contributor and veteran columnist. He shares insights on Jimmy Kimmel's powerful defense of free speech following his ABC suspension. The conversation highlights Kimmel's bipartisan support and apology, while also diving into the implications of Trump's recent threats toward ABC. Barnicle assesses Trump's shifting stance on Ukraine and the skeptical reactions from European allies, providing a thoughtful analysis on the intersection of politics and media.
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Kimmel Frames Return As Free Speech Defense
- Jimmy Kimmel framed his return as a defense of free speech and civic norms beyond his personal case.
- His plea emphasized that government pressure to silence comedians is fundamentally un-American.
Erica Kirk's Forgiveness Highlighted
- Jimmy Kimmel highlighted Erica Kirk's public forgiveness of her husband's shooter as a moving example.
- He presented that act of grace as the lesson to carry forward from the tragedy.
Free Speech United Across The Aisle
- Hosts argued the controversy united unlikely allies to defend speech against government overreach.
- They framed the clash as big government versus individual rights rather than left vs right.