Podcast host Joe Rogan expressed deep concern over the reactions to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, during a recent episode of his show, “The Joe Rogan Experience.” Kirk was killed on September 10, 2023, an event that has sparked significant debate and controversy across social media platforms and among public figures.
Rogan characterized the celebratory reactions from certain individuals as indicative of a nation teetering on the brink of civil conflict. He noted that several people lost their jobs due to online comments that either celebrated Kirk’s death or criticized him in the aftermath. Rogan stated, “On a scale of one to civil war, I would put the U.S. at around a seven because of the celebratory reaction to Kirk’s killing.” His comments underscored a growing unease about the state of political discourse in the United States.
He elaborated on his thoughts, questioning the morality of celebrating violence against those with differing viewpoints. “You want people to die that you disagree with? Like, where are we right now on the scale of one to civil war? Are we at seven? Because I thought we were five,” Rogan remarked. His stark assessment reflects a rising concern among some commentators about the potential for increasing polarization and violence.
The reaction to Kirk’s assassination has not gone unnoticed by other figures in the entertainment industry. Actor Charlie Sheen appeared on a subsequent episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” where he expressed his shock and sorrow regarding Kirk’s death. “Rest in peace,” Sheen said, adding emphatically, “He doesn’t deserve that. Nobody deserves that.” His comments highlight a divide in public sentiment regarding the incident.
In the days following the assassination, historian Heather Cox Richardson noted in a YouTube discussion that she had not observed left-wing individuals rejoicing over Kirk’s murder. However, Tom Elliott, founder of Grabien News, countered this claim by compiling a supercut that showcased various reactions online, including those that celebrated the event.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Kirk’s assassination and the subsequent reactions have ignited a broader conversation about the state of political dialogue in the United States. As public figures continue to weigh in, the implications of such events on societal cohesion remain a pressing concern.
The fallout from this incident underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of how political differences are navigated in contemporary society. With tensions running high, many are left to ponder the future trajectory of American discourse and the potential consequences for civic engagement.
