By Molly Anderson
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and host of a nationally recognized conservative podcast, was shot and killed last week while speaking to college students and supporters at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Authorities con- firmed he was assassinated by gunfire during the campus event, and the investigation remains ongoing. He was 31 years old and leaves behind his wife, Erika, and their two young children. Kirk, who built Turning Point USA into one of the largest youth political organizations in the country, was known for his podcast and public speaking appearances. His career focused on educating young vot- ers and advocating for conservative principles. A vigil was held at the San Clemente Outlets, organized by Calvary South O.C. San Clemente. An attendee Alicia Roberts called it “an amazing vigil for Charlie and for God’s Glory [...] was in awe of the outpouring,” according to Lariat News. San Clemente Mayor, Steve Knoblock, described the killing as “an attack on free dis- course,” adding, “We may have different ideas and opinions, but we will continue to listen and learn from each other as we protect our liberties.” Nationally, millions watched his memorial service from State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Fox News reported 4.8 mil- lion viewers tuned in, compared to CNN’s 330,000 and MSNBC’s 251,000. Almost totally more than 20 million through all networks. At the service, Erika Kirk said, “I forgive him [...] I forgive him because it was what Christ did and is what Charlie would do. The answer to hate is not hate, the answer we know from the gospel is love and always love.”
Photo Provided by New York Post