Linda McMahon Says ‘We Have to Teach How to Disagree’ After Charlie Kirk Killing

Education Secretary Calls for Civil Discourse in Wake of Campus Violence

On Thursday, Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the necessity for educators to spearhead a national movement towards fostering more civil political discourse, especially in light of the recent surge in violence on school and university campuses, including the tragic assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Speaking at a Ronald Reagan Institute event, McMahon adopted a notably conciliatory tone, contrasting sharply with the rhetoric of President Donald Trump and other administration officials following Kirk’s death. The assassination has raised urgent questions about the state of political dialogue in America and its impact on public safety.

McMahon pointed to the ongoing incidence of school shootings as a compelling reason for the need to improve societal skills in “agreeing to disagree.” She stated, “These things are still happening. We have to make sure schools are safe. We have to wind down this discourse that we’re having.”

On the same day as Kirk’s assassination, two other shootings occurred in Colorado, one at Evergreen High School, injuring two students. While McMahon referenced these incidents, details surrounding the second shooting remain unclear, as an Education Department spokesperson did not provide additional context.

McMahon urged educators to take an active role in bridging the divide within the nation. “We have to look at ourselves,” she said, challenging educators to consider how they can model civil engagement. “How can we, in our engagement, show our students that we can approach discussions in a civil manner? We can agree to disagree.”

During her remarks, McMahon described Kirk as a figure who embodied the ability to express strong political views without resorting to antagonism or demeaning others. “He could kinda get in your face a little bit. He could be aggressive in how he talked to you. But he was always civil,” she remarked, despite acknowledging that Kirk’s past statements have drawn criticism for being perceived as racist and sexist.

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McMahon’s remarks came just eight days after the shocking murder of Kirk, 31, in front of a large group of students at Utah Valley University. The incident has ignited a fierce debate among politicians and on social media about the sources of America’s escalating political violence.

In the aftermath of Kirk’s death, Trump and other officials have attributed the murder to “the radical left,” suggesting measures such as revoking tax-exempt status for progressive nonprofits and labeling liberal organizations as domestic terrorists. Additionally, conservative lawmakers in various states have called for disciplinary actions against teachers who suggested, in some instances on social media, that Kirk’s death was justified. However, many educators and leaders from teaching organizations have openly condemned the killing and advocated for greater civility in political discourse.

While McMahon described some educators’ comments regarding Kirk’s murder as “horrific,” she refrained from calling for punitive measures against them. Instead, she advocated for teaching students how to articulate their beliefs while remaining open to opposing viewpoints. “We have to teach how to disagree, hold onto your beliefs and your principles, be willing to listen because you may not always be right,” she urged. “Be willing to say and admit, ‘you know what, I think you’re right and I was wrong.’”

During a 40-minute conversation with Katie Jenner, Indiana’s Secretary of Education, McMahon reiterated her commitment to reducing the federal government’s influence over K-12 education. She also encouraged governors nationwide to participate in a new federal tax credit program aimed at supporting private school scholarships.

Reflecting on the broader educational landscape, McMahon expressed concern over the declining academic performance of American K-12 students, stating, “We have really sunk fast. We’ve recognized it. Shame on us if we don’t grab the reins of this and make it work the way it needs to be worked.”