Josie Canseco Faces Backlash After Tribute to Charlie Kirk

Model and influencer Josie Canseco, daughter of baseball star Jose Canseco, sparked controversy after posting a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist fatally shot during a campus event. Canseco called Kirk “one of the smartest people of our time” and expressed sympathy for his family.

Despite clarifying that she condemns violence and urges rejection of political extremism, Canseco received significant online criticism. Many accused her of glorifying Kirk or being insensitive, while some mocked her intelligence and threatened to unfollow her.

HGTV’s Erin Napier faced similar backlash after paying respects to Kirk and responded by condemning those who celebrate death.

Kirk, 31, was founder of Turning Point USA and was shot on September 10 at Utah Valley University. The suspect was arrested after being identified by his father; a partially destroyed note revealing intent was found.

This incident reflects the deep political polarization where even compassionate remarks about a public figure’s death can ignite fierce debate.