Senator Tim Sheehy published an opinion piece in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle on September 11, 2025, reflecting on the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and addressing recent events, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
Sheehy began by recalling how the events of September 11, 2001, have left a lasting impact on Americans. “Everyone over the age of 35 remembers exactly where they were on September 11, 2001. For the past quarter century, every September 11th, Americans pause for a moment and are brought together by our shared suffering and the shock and horror of seeing thousands of our countrymen killed in the blink of an eye,” he wrote.
He noted that this year’s anniversary felt different due to recent political violence. “This year, 9/11 hit differently. Replacing the feeling of national unity and shared sorrow that usually dominates the day, America was ripped apart by a bullet that assassinated someone who many disagreed with, but whose only mission was to demand debate, encourage discourse, and spur young people to engage on the issues of our time,” Sheehy stated.
Sheehy emphasized that while Americans may hold differing opinions about Charlie Kirk or foreign policy after 9/11, there should be consensus against violence. “Americans can and should disagree on their opinions of Charlie Kirk, just like they can disagree over our foreign policy in the wake of 9/11. What we MUST agree on, however, is that the murder of a young father and husband, just like the slaughter of 3,000 Americans, is evil.”
He raised concerns about increasing acceptance and celebration of political violence over the past year. “The past year has seen a terrible tide of political violence be normalized, accepted, and even celebrated as legitimate protest against those with whom we disagree,” Sheehy said. He referenced several incidents including attempts on President Trump’s life and attacks targeting public officials.
Sheehy also criticized social media reactions and news coverage following violent acts: “Even worse, the most disgusting corners of social media celebrate these atrocities when they happen. Media outlets skew coverage to hide the truth and adhere to their viewers’ preferred narrative…”
Calling for change, Sheehy wrote: “This must end now. 9/11 can serve as a reminder to us all that although we disagree on much, we agree on much more.”
He urged Americans to focus on shared values such as safety for families and freedom from fear: “We agree that we want a better future for our children…we want our families to be able to speak their mind without fear of violence.”
Reflecting further on Charlie Kirk’s legacy he added: “Charlie Kirk welcomed debate. He welcomed discourse…For this he was killed but for this he will also be remembered.”
Sheehy closed his op-ed by calling for unity reminiscent of post-9/11 service: “After the deadliest attack in our nation’s history…thousands volunteered to serve…just like firefighters…who rose to occasion…embodied best America…”
He concluded with an appeal for healing: “It’s time to heal, and now is the perfect time to start.” The full op-ed can be read at https://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/opinions/guest_columnists/montana-senator-tim-sheehy-charlie-kirk/article_bc717113-4a19-4d9f-8c87-14885cd303d1.html
