We make a mistake when we think that people on the left do not approve of Accosta's behavior. Even people who live moral lives feel that "by any means necessary" is ok in order to eliminate President Trump. They excuse any bad, even criminal, behavior on their side because who would not have wanted someone to get rid of Hitler before WW2?
Remember these people think that ending the life of one's own baby is a "right," for many even above all other rights. Lying to themselves is their way of life.
Yes, you are correct. If they didn't approve, the other "reporters", especially the women, would be screaming about Acosta karate chopping the female staffer. They sure howled about Corey Lewandowski touching a female. Instead, they rally around Acosta.