Columbia News

During a Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) addressed FBI Director Kash Patel, focusing on the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and concerns about political violence in the United States.

Schmitt began by acknowledging Director Patel's efforts to increase the number of FBI agents working in St. Louis, noting that it received "the largest permanent per-capita infusion of FBI agents anywhere in the country." He expressed appreciation for these efforts and highlighted ongoing opportunities to address violent crime.

Reflecting on the death of Charlie Kirk, Schmitt described it as a significant loss for free speech and public discourse: "For those of us who knew him — I know you did too — it’s still sort of difficult to put into words what a tragic loss that is — not just for his family, but for our country, for free speech, for the belief that we can have a free exchange of ideas."

Schmitt argued that Kirk's killing was not an isolated event but part of a broader crisis. He stated: "It’s something deeper, much deeper, than a rejection of law and order or the norms of civil society. We’ve entered a very dangerous time, I think, in our country."

He cited data from a YouGov poll indicating that 25 percent of Americans identifying as "very liberal" believe political violence can be justified to achieve political goals. In contrast, less than 3 percent of "very conservative" respondents held this view. Schmitt commented: "But we are lying if we think that this is a both sides thing. It is not. We have to confront it."

Schmitt also referenced social media reactions following Kirk's assassination and noted that platforms such as Bluesky issued statements warning users against glorifying violence: "Bluesky, the left-wing alternative to X, was so overwhelmed with these posts that the platform was forced to issue a statement warning its users to stop glorifying the murder."

He further alleged that organized networks contribute to political violence: "It is the offspring of a dark and clandestine system funded in part with our own tax dollars, with a large network of foundations, NGOs, activist organizations and front groups." He specifically mentioned George Soros as funding groups involved in these activities.

During an exchange with Director Patel about several high-profile incidents—including attacks at congressional baseball practice and protests during 2020—Schmitt repeatedly characterized them as examples of left-wing violence. Patel responded regarding one incident: “Sir, I believe It was a left-wing ideology.”

Schmitt concluded by calling for honesty about political violence and reiterated his stance on free speech versus violent actions: “Free speech yes. Political violence no. But let’s be honest.”