Derrick Van Orden, a U.S. Representative, attributed the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk to legacy media outlets, asserting that Democratic rhetoric contributed to an environment conducive to violence. This statement was made during an interview with reporters outside the Capitol.
“Every single one of you here, you’re at fault,” said Derrick Francis Van Orden, U.S. Representative from Wisconsin. “You should be ashamed of yourself; it’s disgusting. The left-wing media is the propaganda arm of the 21st century brown shirts that is the Democrat party. The Gloves are Off and these horrible vultures claiming to be journalist must be held accountable.”
On September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The event attracted approximately 3,000 attendees and marked the beginning of his “American Comeback Tour.” Kirk, aged 31, was shot in the neck during his speech and later pronounced dead. The incident has prompted a federal investigation.
In related events, former President Donald Trump survived two assassination attempts. On July 13, 2024, he was wounded by gunfire during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania; the shooter was subsequently killed by Secret Service agents. A second attempt occurred in August 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida, involving a suspect whose DNA linked him to weapons found near Trump’s property.
Van Orden represents Wisconsin’s 3rd District and has served since 2023. His career includes 26 years in the U.S. Navy as a Navy SEAL Senior Chief before retiring. According to his official House biography, he serves on several House Committees including Veterans’ Affairs, Armed Services, and Agriculture. His military background significantly influences his focus on defense and veteran healthcare policies.
