Kamala Harris Accuses Trump Administration of Silencing Critics After Jimmy Kimmel Suspension
Former Vice President Kamala Harris denounced the Trump administration after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel following his remarks on Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Harris described the suspension as part of an “assault on free speech,” emphasizing that fear was being used as a weapon to silence critics.
Kamala Harris blasts Trump administration over Jimmy Kimmel’s ABC suspension, calling it an “assault on free speech” amid political backlash.
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Posting on X, Harris stated, “What we are witnessing is an outright abuse of power,” without directly mentioning Kimmel. She warned that media outlets were caving under government pressure and urged Americans not to remain silent.
Her comments align with a growing number of political leaders and public figures raising alarms about threats to free expression. California Governor Gavin Newsom accused Republicans of orchestrating censorship, describing it as “coordinated” and “dangerous.”
Former President Barack Obama also addressed the controversy, saying the Trump administration had escalated cancel culture by threatening regulatory action against media companies unwilling to suppress voices it opposed.
ABC confirmed Wednesday that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would be suspended indefinitely after Nexstar, the largest U.S. television station owner, pulled the show from its stations. The decision came just days after Kimmel’s monologue, where he criticized conservatives for exploiting Kirk’s murder for political advantage.
During the segment, Kimmel accused right-wing groups of attempting to deflect responsibility and “score political points” from the tragedy. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Federal Communications Commission chairman Brendan Carr, who publicly urged broadcasters to remove Kimmel’s show.
Carr, a Trump appointee, warned that networks could face consequences if they continued airing the program. Speaking to conservative commentator Benny Johnson, Carr said, “These companies can find ways to change conduct and take action, frankly, on Kimmel or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”
