Christian Conservative Leader Charlie Kirk Killed in Utah Shooting; Tributes Pour In

September 11, 2025

by Clarissa Reaves-Williams

As we grieve this heartbreaking loss, we do so with the assurance of faith: Charlie Kirk is present with the Lord. The conservative movement and faith community are reeling after the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was fatally shot during his “American Comeback Tour” stop at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Kirk, only 31, was recognized as one of the most influential conservative voices of his generation—a patriot, a bold communicator, and an unapologetic Christian who dedicated his life to mobilize young people and speak truth in a world full of turmoil.

Kirk was known for being an unapologetic and outspoken Christian. He often spoke about Jesus Christ as the foundation of his worldview and urged young Americans to live out their faith boldly in public life. His unique ability to communicate with the next generation set him apart—whether through fiery speeches, college campus debates, or his widely followed podcast and media network.

“Charlie was a great leader for God in the world so full of turmoil,” said Herbert Williams of Reaves & Williams Publishing Group. “His loss is devastating. He inspired countless people to be courageous in their faith and convictions.”

For me, his loss feels deeply personal. I have long admired Charlie’s ability to blend common sense with biblical conviction. He wasn’t afraid to speak uncomfortable truths or to stand up boldly for conservative values when others remained silent. Charlie was a great patriot and an outspoken leader for common sense.

And as a community, we must be clear: we reject political violence in all forms. It has no place in our society, and it robs families and communities of voices that matter.

Leaders across the conservative movement and Republican Party expressed shock and sorrow:

President Donald Trump called Kirk “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk,” adding: “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me…”

Vice President J.D. Vance asked Americans to “say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”

Pete Hegseth, Pentagon Chief and conservative commentator, wrote: “Prayers for Charlie Kirk. An incredible Christian, American, and human being. May the healing hand of Jesus Christ be upon him.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson urged: “Please join us in praying for our good friend, Charlie Kirk.”

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, himself a survivor of political violence, said: “Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk after this senseless act.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham called the attack “sick and despicable” and added, “I am praying for Charlie Kirk and his family. Please join me.”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune declared: “There is no place in our country for political violence. Period, full stop.”

Other conservative voices—from Mark Levin and Dinesh D’Souza to Sean Hannity and Steve Bannon’s War Room—also urged followers to lift Kirk’s family in prayer and to reject political violence.

Statement from Turning Point USA

Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded and led, released a statement following his death:
“Charlie’s mission was simple yet profound: to inspire young Americans to love their country, their freedom, and their faith. He poured his heart into the next generation, and his impact cannot be measured. Though his voice has been silenced, his vision will continue to guide us. We ask for prayers for Charlie’s wife Erika, their children, and the entire Turning Point family.”

Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012, when he was only 18, and grew it into the largest conservative youth movement in America. He challenged cultural norms on college campuses, inspired students to think critically, and never shied away from defending biblical truth.

He is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two children.

While the nation mourns, his influence will not be forgotten. For millions, Charlie Kirk was more than a commentator—he was a warrior for Christ, a patriot for America, and a voice of conviction in an age of compromise.

As tributes continue to pour in, one truth resounds: his life was a bold testimony of faith, freedom, courage—and a reminder that political violence has no place in America.

Scripture for Reflection
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
— Philippians 1:21

The Life & Legacy of Charlie Kirk

1993 – Born October 14 in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

2012 – At just 18 years old, founded Turning Point USA with the mission of educating students about the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited government.

2015–2016 – Turning Point USA expanded to more than 1,000 campuses nationwide, making it one of the fastest-growing conservative youth movements in America.

2016 – Rose to national prominence during the Trump presidential campaign, helping galvanize young conservative support.

2018 – Launched the Charlie Kirk Show, a daily podcast and radio program that grew into one of the most popular conservative podcasts in the nation.

2019 – Established Turning Point Action, focused on mobilizing grassroots voters and strengthening conservative turnout.

2020 – Played a key role in conservative voter outreach and political engagement, especially among young evangelicals.

2021–2023 – Continued building Turning Point’s influence through conferences, youth summits, and campus events, often drawing thousands of students and high-profile conservative speakers.

2024 – Expanded his reach through Turning Point Faith, Turning Point Academy, and Turning Point Action—creating one of the most diverse conservative activist networks in the country.

2025 – Launched the American Comeback Tour, focused on restoring patriotism, traditional values, and Christian faith across America. Tragically assassinated during the tour’s first stop at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.

Here Are Memorable Charlie Kirk Quotes We Should Never Forget

“The most important thing we can do is tell the truth boldly.”

“Faith is not something to be hidden. Live it out, speak it out, and let the world see it.”

Since Patriot Day (September 11) honors the victims of 9/11, first responders, and all who stood as patriots in the face of tragedy, we want to approach this with care and humility and honor both:

As we prepare to mark Patriot Day tomorrow, a day when we honor the heroes of 9/11 and the enduring spirit of America, it is fitting to also remember Charlie Kirk as a patriot in his own right—someone who dedicated his life to truth, faith, and country. May his voice inspire us to stand boldly, as those before us did, for the values that make America strong.

And remember Be a light. Be bright. Be bold.

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