ESPN ex-host expresses concerns as messages become increasingly alarming following Charlie Kirk's demise
In the wake of the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative influencer and the founder of Turning Point USA, Samantha Ponder, former ESPN host, has broken her silence and expressed her sorrow for his untimely death.
Ponder, who is currently concerned for her safety while riding the New York City subway following the stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska, took to X to share her thoughts on the loss of Kirk. She mourns not only for Kirk's family and loved ones but also for the state of the country.
Kirk was assassinated at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem at the age of 31. Tyler Robinson has been charged in the killing.
Ponder believes that a platform is useless without courage, a sentiment she feels she spent much of her professional career afraid to express due to fear of losing her position. However, Kirk's death has left her feeling changed. Initially, she felt more fearful, but now she feels emboldened.
Ponder has received 'disturbing' messages since mourning the loss of Kirk. She wrote that it's hypocritical to see someone post about sadness over the death of anyone they cared about and say 'Stop being sad about them.'
Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac commended Kirk for being a 'respectable man.' Donald Trump, in a series of social media messages, also lamented Kirk's death, mourning him as a great and legendary figure who uniquely understood American youth. He recently expressed concern in his private messages about the escalating political violence and worsening situation in the U.S., particularly due to the normalization of threats, easy availability of weapons, and a climate of escalation fueled by rhetoric and conspiracy narratives.
As Ponder continues to navigate her newfound courage, she has renewed hope that many will find the courage to speak the truth boldly in the public square, as Kirk often did.
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