In a moment that should have united the nation in grief and prayer, one liberal journalist turned to political point-scoring—and paid the price. A.G. Gancarski, a reporter for Florida Politics website, has been suspended after sending what many are calling an appalling and opportunistic text message to Republican Congressman Randy Fine (R-FL) shortly after conservative leader Charlie Kirk was shot during a speaking engagement.
Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and a fierce advocate for conservative values and President Donald Trump, was addressing students at Utah Valley University when a single gunshot rang out. Eyewitness video captures the horrifying moment Kirk appears to be struck in the neck. He was quickly rushed to a hospital, but tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Kirk has long been a galvanizing figure among young conservatives, empowering students across America to stand up against leftist indoctrination on college campuses. He played a key role in energizing the youth vote for Trump and delivered a powerful speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. His death has sent shockwaves throughout the conservative movement and beyond.
While leaders across the political spectrum took to social media to offer condolences and prayers, Gancarski saw an opportunity to push a gun control narrative. Just 23 minutes after the news of Kirk’s shooting broke—and before Kirk’s passing was confirmed—Gancarski texted Rep. Fine to ask if the incident would change his position on campus carry laws.
“Does Charlie Kirk getting shot affect your position on campus carry?” the reporter asked. “If gun control had been in play could the tragedy have been avoided?”
The timing and tone of the message outraged Fine, who immediately fired back: “I learned that Charlie Kirk was shot 23 minutes ago. I am repulsed that you would even think to ask a political question when all anyone should be doing is praying for his survival. Never contact me again.”
Fine then took the conversation public, posting a screenshot of the text exchange with a damning caption: “You don’t hate the media enough.”
The backlash was swift. Within the hour, Florida Politics publisher Peter Schorsch suspended Gancarski and condemned his actions in a post on X. “I cannot be the person I am, a critic of extremism on both the left and right,” Schorsch wrote, “if those who work with me lack the basic empathy in horrific situations.” He further instructed Gancarski to “go dark” on social media while the outlet reviews the incident.
Gancarski’s X account is now locked and private. However, screenshots continue to circulate showing the reporter defending his question, stating, “I stand by the question. Tragedy is ultimately what tests policy positions.”
Another deleted tweet reportedly showed Gancarski doubling down, calling the inquiry “valid” due to Fine’s sponsorship of SB 814, a bill that would have allowed concealed carry on college campuses in Florida. That bill narrowly failed in committee earlier this year.
The shooting, which left a rising conservative icon dead, should have been a moment for solemn reflection. Instead, a member of the media used it to attack a Republican lawmaker and push an anti-gun agenda.
