Keith Olbermann, former MSNBC host and outspoken liberal firebrand, stirred up controversy once again by urging fellow leftists to psychologically “batter” conservatives, including actor James Woods, who fled his home due to California wildfires, as reported by Fox News.

The incident revealed the growing chasm within liberal circles about how to engage with political opponents.

A house on top of a hill along Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu was fully engulfed in flames from the Palisades Fire on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. The fire erupted a day earlier amid fierce Santa Ana winds.

The drama unfolded when liberal influencer Angela Belcamino criticized retired University of Missouri professor Karen Piper for mocking Woods’ evacuation, labeling it “karma.”

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Piper had posted, “James Woods’ house is burning down. It’s karma calling,” only to delete the statement after receiving widespread backlash, including condemnation from the University of Missouri.

In response to Belcamino’s plea for decency, Olbermann lashed out, arguing that conservatives deserve no sympathy.

He told her, “This is the attitude that lost the election. They will not compromise, they will not convert, they will not be human. They must be defeated – and any chance to bruise or batter them psychologically must be exploited.”

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He specifically targeted Woods, calling him a “despicable human being, especially to women.”

The University of Missouri swiftly distanced itself from Piper’s remarks. A spokesperson stated, “The University of Missouri extends its sympathies to all those affected by the wildfires in California. We find the statement by Karen Piper — a retired professor — to be deeply offensive, and it does not reflect the university’s viewpoint or values. We are reviewing this matter.”

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Piper later walked back her comments, telling The College Fix, “The situation in California is heartbreaking and devastating. As a Californian, I am particularly distraught by seeing the devastation of so many beloved places I used to call home.”

Belcamino, however, was unmoved by Olbermann’s tirade. She rebuked his harsh rhetoric, arguing that it alienates voters and costs Democrats elections. “I’m not a fan of James Woods at all, but being happy his house burnt down isn’t the answer. Be better,” she posted.

Undeterred, Olbermann doubled down, defending Piper’s initial remark and insisting that psychological attacks on conservatives were a necessary strategy. Belcamino shot back, pinning the blame for Democratic losses squarely on Olbermann’s toxic approach.

“I could write you a laundry list of things that lost the presidency, House, Senate, popular vote, and every single swing state, but having an ounce of humanity isn’t one of them,” she said. She added, “Keithy, you truly haven’t learned a thing from 2024, and doubling down on this kind of rhetoric will cost the Democrats again in 2028.”

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The exchange highlights the ongoing divide within the Democratic Party. While some liberals like Belcamino advocate for civility and accountability, others like Olbermann see no room for reconciliation.

As the California wildfires continue to devastate the state, the situation underscores the importance of focusing on relief efforts rather than inflaming political divides.