Jezebel Published Witch Curse Article Days Before Charlie Kirk Assassination

A Jezebel article published two days before the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk detailed how the outlet paid online witches on Etsy to curse him, portraying the act as a humorous retaliation against his far-right rhetoric and misogynistic views. The article included purchases of various curses meant to inconvenience Kirk, while explicitly stating no harm was intended. After Kirk was shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, Jezebel added an editor's note condemning the shooting and disavowing political violence, though the original article remained online with its tone criticized for political demonization. The incident prompted widespread condemnation from political figures across the spectrum, including President Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama, who called the violence unacceptable. Jezebel's piece, initially authored by Claire Guinan and later anonymized, spotlighted Kirk's divisive persona and his influence among young conservative voters, while also highlighting the internet's role in modern political and cultural conflicts. The episode underscores ongoing tensions in American political discourse surrounding activism, media portrayal, and political violence.