Newsday, a prominent contender in the realm of American journalism, has found itself in hot water following an outrageous cartoon depicting the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, which critics have labeled as both grotesque and insensitive.
This controversial cartoon, crafted by Chip Bok—a name that has somehow made it to the finalists for a Pulitzer Prize—depicted a blood-splattered tent alongside an empty chair, punctuated by the provocatively dismissive question “Prove me wrong.”
The incomprehensibly offensive cartoon published by Newsday trivializing the assassination of Charlie Kirk is so despicable it shocks even those of us who previously believed Newsday had long abandoned impartiality.
Call for the cancellation of Newsday! pic.twitter.com/hK8o6n9tj3— Bruce Blakeman (@NassauExec) September 14, 2025
The Republican Party in Suffolk County, New York reacted strongly, condemning the publication as a mockery of tragedy that exacerbates divisions while fueling the fires of political violence.
Newsday‘s response was swift but perhaps too late: they issued an apology, expressing regret for its publication. The statement read, “On Saturday, Newsday published a syndicated editorial cartoon related to the assassination of Charlie Kirk that was insensitive and offensive. We deeply regret the mistake and sincerely apologize to the family of Charlie Kirk and to the public.”
Continuing, the statement added, “The cartoon utilized the theme of Kirk’s own organization, Turning Point USA, and the notion of a ‘Prove Me Wrong’ event to imply that this tragic event might serve as a catalyst for reconciling our nation’s divisions. Clearly, the imagery was inappropriate and should not have seen the light of day in Newsday.”
However, the outrage has not dissipated. Republicans are rallying for a boycott of the publication, claiming it has demeaned the significance of a political assassination and overlooked the tragedy inherent in such violence. Jesse Garcia, chairman of the Suffolk County Republican Party, articulated the sentiments sharply: “The depiction has mocked tragedy, intensified societal divisions, and fanned the flames of political discord. This isn’t a display of journalism but rather a reckless, partisan hit that obscures the real issues at hand.”
Newsday recently published this so-called “political cartoon” targeting Charlie Kirk.
Contact their leadership, especially Owner/President Pat Dolan, to express your views.
1-800-639-7329
Residents of New York, consider cancelling your subscriptions. pic.twitter.com/w92lsbtXk2
— Mike Crispi (@MikeCrispi) September 14, 2025
In a show of solidarity, Nassau County Republicans have urged constituents to dissociate from a paper that they argue normalizes hate and endangers lives. County Executive Bruce Blakeman described the cartoon as “unconscionable,” calling for readers to sever ties with the publication.
“This cartoon trivializing the assassination of Charlie Kirk is a flagrant affront and has deceived the public perception of fairness in journalism. It’s time to cancel Newsday,” Blakeman declared on X.
The responsible citizens of Long Island are encouraged to terminate their subscriptions and target local businesses that continue to advertise with Newsday. The underlying message is clear: there is no place for a culture that trivializes assassination in the United States.
Original content syndicated with permission from ToddStarnes.com, founded by best-selling author and journalist Todd Starnes, who is a distinguished recipient of the RTNDA Edward R. Murrow Award and the Associated Press Mark Twain Award for Storytelling.
