As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated during a student Q&A at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The event marked the start of the group’s “American Comeback Tour,” which planned visits to several campuses.
President Trump released a video statement responding to Kirk’s death:
“All who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror,” Trump said.
Charlie was a patriot who devoted his life to the cause of open debate and the country that he loved so much, the United States of America. He fought for liberty, democracy, justice, and the American people. He’s a martyr for truth and freedom, and there’s never been anyone who was so respected by youth,” said Trump.
“Charlie was also a man of deep, deep faith. And we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace with God in Heaven,” continued Trump.
Trump asked God to watch over Kirk’s wife and children during this time.
“This is a dark moment for America,” said Trump.
“His mission was to bring young people into the political process, which he did better than anybody ever: to share his love of country and to spread the simple words of common sense,” continued Trump.
“It’s long past time for all Americans and the media to confront the fact that violence and murder are the tragic consequence of demonizing those with whom you disagree, day after day, year after year, in the most hateful and despicable way possible,” said Trump.
“For years, those on the radical left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals. This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that we’re seeing in our country today, and it must stop right now,” said Trump.
Trump said his administration would pursue those responsible and any organization that provided funding and support.
“Radical Left political violence has hurt too many innocent people and taken too many lives,” said Trump.
“Tonight, I ask all Americans to commit themselves to the American values for which Charlie Kirk lived and died — the values of free speech, citizenship, the rule of law, and the patriotic devotion and love of God.”
“The monster who attacked [Charlie Kirk] was attacking our whole country,” continued Trump.
“An assassin tried to silence him with a bullet, but he failed, because together we will ensure that his voice, his message, and his legacy will live on for countless generations to come.”
“Today, because of this heinous act, Charlie’s voice has become bigger and grander than ever before….”