New York Times Corrects False Antisemitism Claim Against Charlie Kirk After Assassination

Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, the New York Times published an article that falsely attributed an antisemitic statement to the Turning Point USA founder from a 2023 podcast episode. The Times later issued corrections clarifying that Kirk had been quoting and critiquing a controversial social media post, not endorsing it, and that he rejected sweeping generalizations about Jewish communities. Despite the correction, the Times maintained that Kirk faced accusations of antisemitism, including alleged promotion of replacement theory and criticism of Jewish philanthropists supporting left-wing causes such as Black Lives Matter. Kirk, a vocal supporter of Israel praised by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was recognized by many in the Jewish community for opposing antisemitism, describing hatred of Jews as "demonic" and intolerable. The incident sparked debate about media accuracy and the portrayal of conservative figures, with some criticizing the Times for its initial misreporting and subsequent framing of Kirk's political views. President Donald Trump and other world leaders issued statements mourning Kirk's death and praising his impact on American youth and conservative activism.