Show-Me State Times

During a Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) addressed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel, expressing concern about political violence following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Schmitt thanked Director Patel for increasing the number of FBI agents in St. Louis, stating, "St. Louis received the largest permanent per-capita infusion of FBI agents anywhere in the country. I know it’s not only an isolated event, but we certainly appreciate your honor and your commitment to doing that."

Schmitt described the aftermath of Kirk’s assassination as a sign of a deeper societal problem, emphasizing that political violence reflects "a deep and corrosive sickness in any society." He noted broad condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum but argued that there is still division regarding fundamental views on America and Western civilization.

Referencing recent polling data, Schmitt stated, "Just last week, a YouGov poll found that a quarter, a full 25 percent, of the people who describe themselves as very liberal say it can be justified for citizens to use violence to achieve political goals. Less than 3 percent of very conservative Americans say the same. That’s too many — that is 3 percent too many." He added that while most Americans oppose political violence, "there is a vocal, active minority that encourages and celebrates it. And that minority is overwhelmingly on the left."

Schmitt also cited findings indicating Democrats were nearly twice as likely as Republicans to find it acceptable to celebrate the death of a public figure they oppose. He mentioned social media activity after Kirk’s death: "Bluesky, the left-wing alternative to X, was so overwhelmed with these posts that the platform was forced to issue a statement warning its users to stop glorifying the murder."

The senator pointed to various incidents he characterized as examples of left-wing violence and challenged Director Patel to identify their ideological motivation. In response to Schmitt's question about an attempted attack on Republican congressmen at a congressional baseball practice, Patel said: "Sir, I believe It was a left-wing ideology." On other incidents listed by Schmitt—including riots during protests over George Floyd's death and recent high-profile attacks—Patel deferred or acknowledged Schmitt's characterization.

Schmitt concluded his remarks by reiterating his stance: "Free speech yes. Political violence no. But let’s be honest."