Fox News host Jesse Watters challenged Democratic strategist Jessica Tarlov during a broadcast of “The Five” on Friday, saying he no longer takes issue with Democrats labeling Republicans as “fascist” because the term has become routine and uncontrollable.

The exchange came during a panel discussion about political violence in the wake of the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

Some Democrats have attempted to link Republicans and President Donald Trump to the rise in violence, a claim Watters dismissed.

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Tarlov referenced Trump’s recent criticism of Kamala Harris, saying Trump himself had called her a “fascist.”

Watters interrupted her response.

“He’s only saying Kamala’s fascist because he ran out of sting that she was dumb. That’s your word. He was just making fun of it. But Jessica, just listen,” Watters said.

Tarlov pushed back, responding, “No, it was literally my turn. I do mind, deeply.”

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The tension highlighted how partisan divides have remained sharp since the 2024 election.

During the campaign, Harris and her allies accused Trump of fascism, while former President Joe Biden said Trump “should be locked up.”

Those statements came after the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt against Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The gunman, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire on the crowd, killing volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore.

Trump was struck by a bullet that grazed his ear.

Watters argued Democrats’ use of the “fascist” label has lost meaning.

“You guys have called us this word a lot. You can’t control yourselves. We can’t control you. Nancy [Pelosi] can’t. No one can. At this point, say it. Say it all you want. I’m done complaining about it because we look weak when we complain,” Watters said.

He continued, “‘Please don’t say it. We’re warning you. It’s putting people in danger. Everyone’s getting shot. Their cars are getting firebombed. Conservatives can’t give a speech at a college.’ I’m done with saying it. You guys are going to say it. It kind of reminds me of little kids when they call you a name and then you react. They’re like, ‘Oh, we’re going to call that name again.’ So we’re done. Call us whatever you want. Call us the F-bomb. Call us the real F-bomb. I don’t care anymore.”

The issue of political rhetoric resurfaced after a second attempt on Trump’s life was uncovered on September 15, 2024, when Secret Service agents arrested Ryan Routh outside Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Agents reported Routh was hiding in bushes with an AK-47-style rifle.

Democrats have continued to portray Trump’s administration as a threat to democracy since the start of his second term.

The debate has spilled into the media, where Disney-owned ABC indefinitely suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel after he made remarks about Kirk’s alleged shooter, sparking renewed criticism of network handling of political commentary.

Polling data reflects divisions in public opinion. According to a survey conducted by Napolitan News Service, 26 percent of Americans aged 18 to 34 said the country is “better off now that Charlie Kirk has been killed,” though respondents also acknowledged “it is always difficult to wish ill of another human being.”

Among Democrats, 24 percent agreed with the sentiment.

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