April 27th, 2026

The “But” Problem with Violence in Politics

Political violence is wrong. Full stop. And yet, time and again, condemnations come with a “but.”

In this commentary, Charlie Harger examines the pattern—how leaders, commentators, and everyday voices respond to acts of political violence —and why adding justification undermines the message.

Listen to Seattle's Morning News w/ Charlie Harger and Manda Factor every weekday at 5am on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM or go to MyNorthwest.com to learn more!

Charlie Harger

Seattle's Morning News