Stephen Colbert Makes Somber Plea To Americans In Wake Of Charlie Kirk's Death

Late-night host Stephen Colbert had a somber message for Americans as he addressed the assassination of far-right activist Charlie Kirk, stressing that "political violence only leads to more political violence."

Kirk died after an unidentified gunman shot him in the neck as he—ironically enough—mocked victims of gun violence at an event in Utah Valley State University. Kirk's murder has galvanized the far-right, with President Donald Trump and his surrogates claiming without evidence that rhetoric from Democrats is responsible for Kirk's death.

Colbert was the only late-night host to address the shooting as others had already filmed their programs before the shooting took place.

He opened his show with the following message:

“After our scripts for tonight’s show were finished this afternoon, we here at The Late Show learned that Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist, was killed at a speaking engagement in Utah. Our condolences go out to his family and all of his loved ones."

He then remarked on the country's turbulent past, referencing the political upheaval of the 1960s:

“I’m old enough to personally remember the political violence of the 1960s, and I hope it is obvious to everyone in America that political violence does not solve any of our political differences."

"Political violence only leads to more political violence and I pray with all my heart that this is the aberrant action of a madman, and not a sign of things to come.”

You can hear what Colbert said in the video below.

- YouTube youtu.be

Colbert's remarks resonated with many.

The assassination of Kirk has frightened lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, who voiced concerns for their safety in remarks to reporters and are stepping up security measures amid a summer marked by political violence.

Many members are increasing personal protection, moving events indoors, or canceling them outright. Some have said they will no longer host large town halls, opting instead for smaller, private gatherings.

Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway for the suspected shooter, described by authorities as college-aged. The FBI has released photos of a person of interest and is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to their identification and arrest. On Friday morning, Donald Trump announced on Fox News that a suspect had been apprehended.