Full Breakdown
Backlash Against ABC News Reporter Over Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination Suspect's Texts
9/17/2025, 11:47:43 AM
Incident Overview
On September 16, 2025, ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman faced significant backlash for his comments regarding text messages exchanged between Tyler Robinson, the accused assassin of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, and his transgender partner, Lance Twiggs. During a press conference, Gutman described the messages as “very touching” and “intimate,” despite their context surrounding a murder confession.
Content of the Text Messages
The text messages, which were read aloud by Utah County Attorney Jeffrey S. Gray, included Robinson's alleged confession to killing Kirk, stating he had “had enough of his hatred.” In these messages, Robinson expressed affection for Twiggs, repeatedly referring to him as “my love” and claiming his actions were meant to protect him. This duality of love and violence was a focal point of Gutman's commentary.
Gutman's Commentary and Public Reaction
Gutman characterized the messages as “fulsome” and “robust,” emphasizing the emotional aspect of Robinson's relationship with Twiggs. He noted the “heartbreaking duality” of the situation, juxtaposing the intimate nature of the texts with the gravity of the murder committed in front of a crowd, including children. His remarks were met with immediate criticism on social media, with many users expressing disbelief and outrage at his sympathetic tone towards a murder suspect.
Prominent figures, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Fox News host Will Cain, condemned Gutman's comments. DeSantis labeled the media as “fundamentally broken,” while others called for Gutman’s dismissal from ABC News. The backlash highlighted concerns over the media's portrayal of violent crimes and the sensitivity required in such reporting.
Official Statements & Responses
As of the time of publication, ABC News had not issued a formal response to the controversy. Critics across the political spectrum expressed their discontent, with some suggesting that Gutman's framing of the situation was an attempt to humanize a suspect in a politically charged murder case.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Gutman's comments drew widespread condemnation, there was no immediate response from ABC News regarding potential disciplinary actions against him. The lack of an official statement from the network left questions about their stance on the matter and the standards of reporting in sensitive cases.
What's Next
The ongoing investigation into the murder of Charlie Kirk continues, with Robinson facing capital murder charges. The case has drawn national attention, not only for its political implications but also for the media's handling of the narrative surrounding it. As the legal proceedings unfold, scrutiny of media coverage is likely to persist, particularly regarding how journalists balance empathy and the gravity of violent crimes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a press conference in which we’ve read text messages that are A, so fulsome, so robust, so apparently, allegedly self-incriminating and yet, on the other hand, so touching — right — with the suspect reaching out to his roommate, who was allegedly his boyfriend, who we understand, you know, identified as male at birth, now identifies as female,” — Matt Gutman, ABC News Correspondent
- “Is everyone @ABC out of their minds?!” — Meghan McCain, Conservative Commentator
- “Fundamentally, irredeemably, broken,” — Will Cain, Fox News Host
- “Wtaf,” — Karol Markowicz, Columnist
