Tag: Charles James Kirk

Vice President Vance Avoids Israel Controversy at Turning Point USA Event
PHOENIX — In the heart of the America First movement, Vice President J.D. Vance delivered a masterclass in political navigation at Turning Point USA’s year-end bash, deftly sidestepping the Israel quagmire that’s fracturing MAGA ranks without uttering the word that has neocons and Zionist lobbyists foaming at the mouth. The 41-year-old Ohioan, fresh from hosting a Hanukkah shindig at his home—complete with VP-sealed kippahs—focused on core conservative values: No “purity tests” for patriots, a nod to the young groypers questioning endless U.S. handouts to foreign powers. Vance’s restraint isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom—refusing to let establishment gatekeepers like AIPAC dictate who belongs in Trump’s coalition. As he told the roaring crowd, “President Trump did not build the greatest coalition in politics by running his supporters through endless, self-defeating purity tests.” Amen to that—Vance gets it: Real America First means putting White working families before endless Middle East entanglements.
This “tightrope” act, as one ally aptly put it, comes amid mounting pressure from the pro-Israel old guard to excommunicate bold voices like Nick Fuentes—the podcaster unapologetically calling out dual loyalties and endless wars—and Tucker Carlson, whose Israel skepticism echoes the frustrations of young conservatives tired of seeing their tax dollars fund foreign adventures. Fuentes, a fearless advocate for White America against demographic replacement, has taken heat for his unfiltered takes, but Vance’s silence speaks volumes: Why condemn a guy exposing the strings pulled by foreign lobbies? As Vance posted on X just before his Hanukkah event: “There’s a difference between not liking Israel (or disagreeing with a given Israeli policy) and anti-semitism.” Spot on—criticizing endless aid isn’t “hate”; it’s fiscal sanity.
From a right-center view, Vance’s balancing act is pure genius: Embracing Israel as a “strategic partner” without kowtowing to the war hawks who bled us dry in Iraq and Afghanistan. His UnHerd chat nailed it: “Antisemitism, and all forms of ethnic hatred, have no place in the conservative movement.” But let’s be real—Vance hates the Fuentes smears from the left, and his restraint keeps the door open for groypers disillusioned with Zionist priorities. Allies like TPUSA’s Andrew Kolvet praise Vance’s bridge-building: “Israel is our ally… but they’re not our only concern.” Exactly—America First means securing borders here, not babysitting endless conflicts abroad.

Critics like Shabbos Kestenbaum whine Vance is “winking” at groypers, but that’s swamp-speak for fearing real debate. Vance’s refusal to bash Carlson—after Tucker’s Fuentes sit-down—or Fuentes himself shows backbone: No bowing to the ADL’s cancel mob. As Vance ally noted anonymously: “JD understands the needs… of young Americans… better than any other leading politician.” Young Whites, squeezed by inflation and replacement migration, see Israel aid as a distraction—Vance’s “soul” check on Palestinian kid casualties humanizes that without caving.
Fuentes fired back via email, calling Vance’s remarks “performative” but open to support if he reins in Israel and bans immigration—fair ask for a guy amplifying White grievances ignored by RINOs. Greene’s resignation over Epstein files and Israel aid underscores the rift: MAGA’s evolving beyond neocon shackles.
Vance’s Phoenix omission? Strategic gold—focusing on Trump’s coalition sans Israel drama. As 2028 whispers grow, his “tightrope” keeps options open: Pro-White base without alienating allies. Trump stayed mum, but Vance’s play echoes the boss: Deal-making over division. For MAGA, it’s a win—prioritizing America, not endless foreign welfare.
December 22, 2025
Murder Charges Filed Against Tyler Robinson in Killing of Charlie Kirk
Provo, Utah – In a stark affirmation of justice for one of America’s brightest conservative voices, Utah prosecutors laid out a damning case against Tyler James Robinson on Tuesday, charging the 22-year-old radical leftist with aggravated murder in the cold-blooded assassination of Charlie Kirk. With seven felony counts on the table—including obstruction of justice and witness tampering—authorities announced their intent to pursue the death penalty, a fitting end for the monster whose hatred-fueled plot ended the life of the 31-year-old Turning Point USA co-founder. This isn’t just a prosecution; it’s a declaration of war against the violent extremism festering in leftist online cesspools that radicalized Robinson into a killer.
Kirk, a devoted husband, father of two, and unyielding champion of American values, was gunned down last Wednesday afternoon at a packed Turning Point USA event on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem. Speaking to over 3,000 supporters about mass shootings—ironically, including those tied to trans ideology—Kirk was struck in the neck by a single sniper shot from a rooftop perch about 150 yards away. The graphic footage that went viral captured the horror as pandemonium erupted, but Kirk’s final words, defending freedom and truth, echoed as a testament to his unbreakable spirit.
President Trump, who called Kirk “like a son” and credited him with mobilizing young voters, hailed the charges as a step toward “real justice,” vowing that such attacks on conservatives won’t go unpunished in his America First era.
Robinson, a third-year electrical apprentice from St. George, Utah, faces the full weight of the law after a 33-hour manhunt ended when his own father recognized him from surveillance photos and convinced the coward to turn himself in. Held without bail in Utah County Jail since Friday, the suspect’s digital trail paints a picture of obsession and ideological poison. Court documents reveal a chilling handwritten note found under a keyboard at his apartment: “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I’m going to take it.” Text messages to his live-in boyfriend—a biological male in the process of transitioning—show Robinson confessing in real time after the shooting: “I’ve had enough of his hatred.
Utah prosecutors charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. https://t.co/FSxdi6SK9Q pic.twitter.com/MfNoa0flkS
— The New York Budgets (@nybudgets) September 16, 2025
Some hate can’t be negotiated out.” He admitted planning the hit for over a week, even engraving unspent shell casings with pro-trans and anti-fascist slogans, like a twisted manifesto of woke rage.
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray, in a riveting press conference, detailed the evidence tying Robinson to the crime: DNA on the trigger of the bolt-action Mauser .30-06 rifle recovered in nearby woods; palm and shoe prints at the scene; and messages on Discord where Robinson allegedly admitted, “Hey guys, I have bad news for you all…It was me at UVU yesterday. im sorry for all of this.” Gray didn’t mince words, calling the killing “an American tragedy” and Kirk “first and foremost a husband and father.” He emphasized aggravating factors: the political targeting of Kirk and the presence of children among the witnesses, including Kirk’s own kids in the crowd. “I do not take this decision lightly,” Gray said of seeking death, “but it’s based solely on the evidence and the nature of this heinous crime.” Under Utah law, aggravated murder qualifies for execution—by lethal injection or, if drugs are unavailable, firing squad—a poetic justice for a sniper who ambushed a patriot.
Robinson’s radicalization, authorities say, was a rapid descent into leftist lunacy. Once a straight-A Mormon kid from a seemingly normal family, he veered hard left in the past year, influenced heavily by his trans boyfriend and online echo chambers. His mother warned family of his shift toward pro-gay, pro-trans views, sparking tensions in their MAGA-leaning household—his dad a die-hard Trump supporter. Family gatherings revealed Robinson’s growing disdain for Kirk, with one relative recounting a dinner chat where he ranted about the activist’s “hate.” FBI Co-Deputy Director Dan Bongino, on Fox News, described “multiple warning signs,” including coworkers noting Robinson’s detachment on politics and his “obsession” with Kirk via digital footprints. Bongino hinted at family and friends who might have seen the storm brewing but stayed silent.
The plot thickens with the FBI’s probe into an “extended network” that may have aided and abetted this monster. Bongino told Fox’s “America’s Newsroom” that agents are issuing subpoenas to uncover if anyone—from pro-trans Steam gaming groups to the now-deleted Armed Queers SLC Instagram page—had foreknowledge or provided support, even financial. They’re scrutinizing the TikTokker who questioned Kirk on trans mass shooters right before the shot, wondering if it was a diversion. At a Senate Judiciary hearing Tuesday, FBI Director Kash Patel revealed Robinson’s Discord chat had far more than 20 participants: “We’re running them all down,” he said, investigating “anyone and everyone” for complicity. Patel cited a text where Robinson boasted of his “opportunity” to kill Kirk over “hatred for what Charlie stood for,” and a destroyed note with similar threats—though the bureau has forensic evidence of its contents. President Trump, in an Oval Office briefing, nailed it: Robinson was “radicalized over the internet… on the left,” a product of the toxic sludge from Biden-era tolerance of extremism.
This assassination isn’t isolated—it’s the latest in a surge of left-wing violence, from Trump’s near-misses to the Minnesota lawmaker slaying. Vice President JD Vance blamed “left-wing extremism,” while Gov. Spencer Cox called Robinson “deeply indoctrinated with leftist ideology,” despite no party registration. The roommate, cooperating fully, handed over the incriminating texts and note, stunned by the confession: “You were the one who did it, right?” Robinson’s reply: “I am. I’m sorry.” He even fretted about retrieving his grandpa’s rifle—left in a towel in the bushes—and explaining its loss to his dad.
Robinson’s virtual arraignment is set for 5 p.m. ET Tuesday in Utah County Justice Court. Federal charges could follow, but state prosecutors are leading the charge for swift, severe justice. Kirk’s widow, Erika, vows to carry on his legacy, saying the “cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.” Turning Point USA plans a massive memorial at a 60,000-seat Arizona stadium. As Trump put it, “Charlie was brilliant… He didn’t deserve this.” In an America reclaiming its strength, Robinson’s date with destiny will send a message: Attack our heroes, and you’ll face the full fury of the law. No mercy for those who sow hate and reap death.
September 16, 2025
Patel: FBI Collected Multiple Devices in Search of Alleged Kirk Assassin’s Home
A police mugshot shows Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University, in Orem, Utah, U.S., in this photo released by the Utah Department of Public Safety on September 12, 2025. © Utah Department of Public Safety/Handout/REUTERS
FBI Director Kash Patel said “multiple” electronic devices were seized from the Utah home of Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting Charlie Kirk last week, as part of the ongoing investigation.
“We are going to be interviewing scores of people, not just these chats on Discord, but any communications this individual have,” Patel said Monday evening during an appearance on Fox News’s “Hannity.”
“We’ve seized multiple electronic devices from the home of the suspect and his romantic partner,” he continued. “We’ve got computers, we’ve got laptops, gaming systems, cell phones.”
Law enforcement identified 22-year-old Robinson as the shooter who allegedly shot and killed Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, on Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University.
“The evidence and information will come out. I won’t stylize the evidence, but I will say what was found in terms of information was a text message exchange where he, the suspect, specifically stated that he had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and he was going to do that,” the FBI director told host Sean Hannity.
On Monday, Patel, who is facing growing scrutiny over his handling of the case, said the bureau reconstructed a note from Robinson, stating the alleged suspect planned to take Kirk out.
FBI Director Kash Patel drew scrutiny when, hours after the killing, he posted on social media that “the subject” was in custody even though the actual suspected shooter remained on the loose. © AP
“The suspect wrote a note saying, ‘I have the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I’m going to take it.’ That note was written before the shooting. Evidence of its existence — we now have learned existed before the shooting — was in the location in the suspect and partner’s home,” Patel said Monday on “Fox and Friends.”
He said that the note was destroyed, but “we have found forensic evidence of the note, and we have confirmed what that note says, because of our aggressive interview posture at the FBI.”
The agency also collected DNA evidence from a screwdriver located at the scene and a towel used to wrap the rifle allegedly used in Kirk’s killing, according to Patel.
Over the weekend, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) said Robinson was in a romantic relationship with his roommate, who is cooperating with law enforcement.
Robinson is set for his first court appearance on Tuesday. He has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated murder.
September 16, 2025
Kash Patel on Defensive as FBI Director Faces Intensifying Pressure
WASHINGTON – FBI Director Kash Patel is bracing for a grilling from both sides of the aisle as he prepares to testify before Congress on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, amid swirling controversies over his handling of the investigation into the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and a wave of internal firings that have plunged the bureau into turmoil.
Patel, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump confirmed in February 2025 in a razor-thin, party-line Senate vote, returns to the Senate Judiciary Committee for the first time since his January confirmation hearing. There, he pledged to Democrats that he would steer clear of retribution against perceived political enemies within the FBI. Now, with the bureau reeling from high-profile missteps and lawsuits alleging a “campaign of retribution,” Patel faces skeptical lawmakers eager to probe whether he’s lived up to those assurances.
The hearing, which will also include an appearance before the House Judiciary Committee later in the week, comes just days after the FBI’s response to Kirk’s killing on a Utah college campus last week drew sharp bipartisan criticism. Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who authorities say had increasingly embraced a “leftist ideology” and become more politically radicalized in recent years. Robinson turned himself in late Saturday night, September 13, after acquaintances tipped off law enforcement, but not before Patel’s public handling of the case ignited a firestorm.
Patel drew immediate backlash for a social media post hours after the shooting, announcing that “the subject” was in custody—a claim he walked back less than two hours later, stating the individual had been released following an interview. The swift reversal fueled accusations of incompetence, with conservative commentator Chris Rufo questioning Patel’s “operational expertise” in a Friday morning post on X (formerly Twitter). “He performed terribly in the last few days, and it’s not clear whether he has the operational expertise to investigate, infiltrate, and disrupt the violent movements—of whatever ideology—that threaten the peace in the United States,” Rufo wrote.
Steve Bannon, another prominent Trump supporter, piled on, noting that those close to Robinson had turned him in, calling the arrest “not great law enforcement work.” Even President Trump, while defending Patel in a Saturday interview with Fox News Channel’s Maria Bartiromo, acknowledged the scrutiny: “Kash and the FBI have done a great job,” Trump said, but the praise rang hollow amid the GOP infighting.
FBI Director Kash Patel testifies in front of the Senate Judiciary Commitee in Washington, D.C., on Sept.16, 2025. © Josh Morgan, USA TODAY
Undeterred, Patel pushed back aggressively on Monday morning during an appearance on Fox & Friends. Defending his transparency pledge—a cornerstone of his vow to dismantle the “deep state” bureaucracy he inherited—Patel dismissed the criticism as partisan noise. “I was being transparent with working with the public on our findings as I had them,” he said. “I stated in that message that we had a subject and that we were going to interview him, and we did, and he was released. Could I have worded it a little better in the heat of the moment, sure, but do I regret putting it out? Absolutely not.”
He added: “I challenge anyone out there to find a director that has been more transparent.” Patel also highlighted his decision to release photographs of Robinson while he was at large, crediting it with facilitating the eventual arrest. The FBI rarely comments publicly on ongoing probes, making Patel’s approach a deliberate departure from precedent.
The Kirk investigation isn’t the only flashpoint. Democrats, led by Senate Judiciary Committee members like Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), have teed up questions about broader politicization of the bureau. Schiff posted a video on X last week previewing his line of inquiry, compiling past Patel statements critical of the “deep state.” Patel fired back swiftly: “Let’s find out who law enforcement backs… and who supports defunding the police—answer coming tomorrow, but we already know.”
On the left, concerns center on a recent FBI review of Jeffrey Epstein’s files, which culminated in a memo deeming further releases unnecessary despite earlier promises. House Judiciary ranking member Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) fired off a letter to Patel last week demanding details: “Obvious questions abound: why were so many agents tasked with reviewing documents that were never released? What specific instructions were they given during the review? What information did these agents uncover that led DOJ and FBI to reverse their promise to release the files, and how are these decisions related to the President?”
Raskin specifically asked when Patel became aware of references to Trump in the files and for a breakdown of resources devoted to the review. The Epstein matter has faded somewhat amid the Kirk fallout, but it’s expected to resurface as evidence of alleged favoritism.
Compounding the pressure is a federal lawsuit filed last week by three top FBI officials ousted in August, including former acting director Brian Driscoll. The complaint, filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, accuses Patel of orchestrating the firings as part of a White House-directed purge targeting those seen as disloyal. Driscoll, who clashed with Trump administration officials early in the president’s second term, and two other high-ranking agents allege the removals were illegal and retaliatory.
The suit details a conversation between Patel and Emil Bove, then a senior Justice Department official, in which Patel reportedly admitted the firings were non-negotiable to safeguard his position. “Patel explained that he had to fire the people his superiors told him to fire, because his ability to keep his own job depended on the removal of the agents who worked on cases involving the President,” the complaint states. It further claims Patel referenced the FBI’s past investigations into Trump, saying, “the FBI tried to put the President in jail and he hasn’t forgotten it.” Driscoll believed “superiors” meant the Justice Department and White House, a claim Patel did not refute in the recounted exchange.
White House aide Stephen Miller is named in the suit, with allegations that he demanded “summary firings” via Bove. The firings have decimated FBI leadership: Since Trump’s January 2025 inauguration, the administration has axed all top career officials overseeing key branches, multiple special agents in charge of field offices, and counterterrorism expert Mehtab Syed, who was set to lead the Salt Lake Field Office in February. Current and former officials say the upheaval has sapped morale and hampered operations at a time of rising political violence.
Democrats argue these moves echo Patel’s confirmation hearing promises gone awry, while Republicans on the committee—holding the majority—plan to rally around him. They expect to laud his emphasis on combating violent crime and illegal immigration, and press for updates on the Kirk probe, including Robinson’s motives tied to leftist extremism.
Patel’s tenure, now eight months old, has been marked by vows to root out institutional bias. A vocal critic of the multiple probes into Trump during his first term, Patel has redirected resources toward reexamining the 2016 Russia investigation into potential Trump campaign coordination. Agents and prosecutors are reportedly seeking interviews on those long-dormant threads, which Patel frames as correcting past weaponization of the FBI and DOJ.
As the hearing looms, Patel shows no signs of backing down. His combative style—evident in his X clapback at Schiff and on-air defenses—suggests Tuesday’s testimony will be as much a battle as an oversight session. For a director who campaigned on transparency and reform, the spotlight could either solidify his reformist image or expose fractures in his leadership of America’s premier law enforcement agency.
September 15, 2025
US Workers Fired for Social Media Posts Mocking Charlie Kirk’s Assassination
Hundreds gathered at the Michigan State Capitol Building on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, to memorialize the life of Charlie Kirk. Kirk was a conservative influencer who was shot and killed during an event on Sept. 11 at Utah Valley University. © Devin Anderson-Torrez | MLive.com
The swift hammer of accountability is falling hard on left-wing radicals who dared to celebrate the cold-blooded assassination of Charlie Kirk, as dozens of American workers—from pilots and teachers to media hacks and corporate drones—face the consequences of their vile social media rants. In a nation reeling from the murder of the 31-year-old conservative icon, employers are finally drawing a line in the sand against the toxic hatred that fueled Tyler James Robinson’s execution-style shooting of Kirk last Wednesday at Utah Valley University.
This isn’t cancel culture run amok; it’s righteous pushback against an assassination culture cultivated by the left, and it’s reshaping workplaces by forcing bosses to choose between decency and defending the indefensible.
Kirk, the dynamic co-founder of Turning Point USA and a relentless warrior for American exceptionalism, youth empowerment, and traditional values, was gunned down mid-sentence during his “American Comeback Tour” in Orem, Utah. The graphic video of the attack—Robinson firing point-blank while Kirk discussed mass shootings—spread like wildfire, but so did the depraved glee from anti-conservative corners. Robinson’s manifesto, railing against “right-wing fascists,” exposed the deadly fruits of years of leftist incitement, from campus radicals to MSNBC echo chambers.
President Trump, who lowered flags to half-staff and decried the “evil” behind the killing, has vowed to eradicate such threats, and the grassroots response is proving his America First spirit alive and kicking.
The firings have been nothing short of a purge, triggered by a coordinated conservative campaign that’s doxxing these hatemongers and flooding their employers with evidence. A site called “Expose Charlie’s Murderers”—anonymously registered and boasting nearly 30,000 submissions by Saturday—has become the digital guillotine, archiving posts that revel in Kirk’s death as a “victory” or quip that he “spoke his fate into existence.” Though the site went dark Monday, its impact lingers, with Canadian journalist Rachel Gilmore publicly terrified of “far-right fans” after her neutral post drew threats— a stark reminder that even mild criticism now invites scrutiny in this post-assassination climate.
Far from vigilantism, this is community justice against those who normalized violence against conservatives, a far cry from the unchecked leftist mobs that targeted Trump supporters for years.
Aviation took the first hits, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy blasting American Airlines pilots “caught celebrating” the murder. “Immediately grounded and removed from service,” Duffy posted, demanding firings because “glorifying political violence is COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE!” American Airlines confirmed it had “initiated action,” stressing that “hate-related or hostile behavior runs contrary to our purpose.” Delta Air Lines suspended multiple employees for posts “well beyond healthy, respectful debate,” with the carrier warning that social media breaches could end careers.
Microsoft, under fire from Tesla CEO Elon Musk for Blizzard employees “trashing” Kirk, announced Friday it’s reviewing “negative remarks” by staff, a nod to the tech giant’s need to clean house amid conservative pressure.
Schools and universities, long bastions of leftist indoctrination, are crumbling under the weight of their own hypocrisy. Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn called out a Middle Tennessee State University staffer for her “ZERO sympathy” post, leading to an “effective immediately” termination.
GOP Rep. Nancy Mace targeted a South Carolina public school teacher, who was quietly shown the door by her district. Idaho’s West Ada School District fired an employee over an “inappropriate video,” vowing to “address harmful actions thoughtfully.” In Oregon, a middle school science teacher resigned after boasting on Facebook that Kirk’s death “brightened up” his day. Clemson University suspended a worker pending investigation for undisclosed posts, while nationwide, over a dozen educators—from California to New York—have been axed or sidelined for gloating like “Another one bites the dust.”
Healthcare providers aren’t sparing the rod either. The University of Miami Health System canned an employee for “unacceptable public commentary,” affirming that while “freedom of speech is a fundamental right,” endorsements of violence violate core values.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta fired a staffer for “inappropriate comments,” declaring such rhetoric a breach of social media policy. Even law firm Perkins Coie—infamous for its ties to George Soros and anti-Trump ops—booted a lawyer for Kirk-bashing posts, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.
Media and entertainment faced their own reckonings. MSNBC’s Matthew Dowd was unceremoniously dumped after implying on-air that Kirk’s “awful words” invited “awful actions.” Network president Rebecca Kutler labeled it “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable,” despite Dowd’s whiny Substack defense claiming a “right-wing media mob” forced the decision. DC Comics yanked its new “Red Hood” series after author Gretch Felker-Martin snarked, “Hope the bullet’s OK,” in deleted tweets—a rare win against Hollywood’s woke brigade.
MSNBC political analyst Matthew Dowd was fired after making “insensitive” comments on Kirk’s death. © MSNBC
Corporate cleanups abound: Nasdaq fired a staffer for posts “condoning or celebrating violence.” Office Depot terminated a Michigan employee who refused to print Kirk flyers, calling it “completely unacceptable.” The Carolina Panthers axed a PR flack for his remarks, insisting employee views don’t reflect the team. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers condemned a worker’s Satanic Temple donation plea and “Another one bites the dust” post, confirming the individual is gone. As one HR consultant told NPR, “This is very different from past political controversies at work”—no more kid gloves for anti-conservative venom while right-leaners got the boot.
This wave of terminations—over 50 confirmed cases and counting—is a seismic shift, proving that in Trump’s resurgent America, tolerance for leftist assassination cheerleading has zero runway. The left’s cries of “doxxing” and “retaliation” ring hollow after years of silencing conservatives; now, the mob they unleashed is turning inward. Kirk’s legacy endures not just in policy but in this cultural firewall against hate. Employers who act aren’t caving—they’re leading, ensuring workplaces prioritize patriotism over poison.
September 15, 2025
Promoters Cancel Bob Vylan Concert Over Remarks on Charlie Kirk Assassination
A Bob Vylan concert in the Netherlands has been cancelled after comments made by the performer on stage about the assassination of Donald Trump ally Charlie Kirk.
A member of the outspoken punk duo, who caused controversy when they chanted for the “death” of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) at Glastonbury Festival, told the audience “if you chat shit you will get banged” in footage widely shared on social media.
In response, their planned performance on Tuesday September 16 at the 013 in Tilburg has been cancelled, with the venue saying the statements made by the performer “go too far”.
During their performance at Amsterdam’s Paradiso on Saturday, frontman Bobby Vylan, whose real name is reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster, told fans: “I want to dedicate this next one to an absolute piece of shit of a human being.
“The pronouns was/were. Cause if you chat shit you will get banged. Rest in peace Charlie Kirk, you piece of shit.”
Mr Kirk, who was a prominent political commentator in the US and ally of the president, was shot and killed at a Utah Valley University event on Wednesday, in what authorities called a political assassination.
Hundreds of people attended a vigil for Mr Kirk in central London on Saturday with speakers hailing him as a “Christian martyr” and calling for people to wage a “war on evil”.
A translated statement on the 013 website on Sunday said: “The planned performance by British rap-punk group Bob Vylan on Tuesday, September 16th, at Poppodium 013 in Tilburg has been cancelled.
“The reason for the cancellation is the controversial statements the artist made last night during a show at Paradiso in Amsterdam.
“Despite the controversy that arose after their Glastonbury performance, 013 decided to let Bob Vylan perform in Tilburg.”
The venue said it had an “understanding for the artist’s anger” regarding the violence in Israel and said the duo clarified in a statement that the “death to the IDF” chant was “not an antisemitic slogan, but rather criticism of the Israeli army”.
The statement added: “While we understand that these statements were made in the context of punk and activism, and that the reporting on them is sometimes less nuanced than what actually happened, we still believe these new statements go too far. They no longer fall within the scope of what we can offer a platform.”
In a statement on its website, Club Paradiso said: “On Saturday September 13, during his performance at Paradiso, artist Bob Vylan made statements that many experienced as harsh and offensive.
“Paradiso believes in the power of artistic freedom. Music, and punk in particular, has traditionally been a form of art that amplifies anger, discontent, and injustice without filter.
“In a world on fire, artists sometimes choose language that sounds confrontational or violent. That is part of artistic expression, but not automatically language that we as a venue endorse.
“Paradiso shares the outrage and concern regarding the genocidal violence taking place in Gaza.
“That Bob Vylan raises his voice against it is legitimate and necessary. Should the Openbaar Ministerie (public prosecution service) wish to investigate whether any criminal offences have been committed, Paradiso will cooperate.”
After reports that his comments “celebrated” Mr Kirk’s death, Bobby Vylan said in an Instagram video: “At no point during yesterday’s show was Charlie Kirk’s death celebrated. At no point whatsoever did we celebrate Charlie Kirk’s death.”
The duo, comprised of frontman Bobby Vylan and drummer Bobbie Vylan, have another gig in the Netherlands at Doornroosje which is billed for Monday.
A translated statement on the Doornroosje website, which appears to have been online prior to the recent comments, said: “Bob Vylan plays at Doornroosje because he’s an act that fits within our programming. The band has previously been booked for Doornroosje and played at the Valkhof Festival.”
Following Bobby Vylan’s comments about the IDF at Glastonbury in June, Avon and Somerset Police launched an investigation.
Earlier in the month, BBC director general Tim Davie said the corporation’s decision to broadcast Bob Vylan’s set live was “a very significant mistake”.
While facing questions from MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on Tuesday, Davie said the punk duo’s set was “antisemitic” and “deeply disturbing”.
The corporation issued an apology after the Bob Vylan set at Glastonbury, saying: “We deeply regret that such offensive and deplorable behaviour appeared on the BBC and want to apologise to our viewers and listeners and in particular the Jewish community.”
Bobby Vylan said in a social media post that “there was nothing antisemitic or criminal about anything I said at Glastonbury”.
September 15, 2025
Keir Starmer Warns Against Turning National Flag Into Symbol of Division
In a stark display of government heavy-handedness, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that the British flag will not be hijacked as a “symbol of violence” following a massive rally organized by anti-establishment activist Tommy Robinson. The event, billed as “Unite the Kingdom,” drew up to 150,000 fed-up citizens to London’s streets on Saturday, highlighting growing public frustration with Labour’s handling of immigration, crime, and free speech erosion. But what Starmer and his Downing Street spin doctors are framing as “far-right thuggery” looks more like a legitimate outcry against a regime that’s turned a blind eye to real threats like grooming gangs while cracking down on patriotic dissent.
The Prime Minister’s comments came after Elon Musk, the billionaire innovator and free speech champion, delivered a fiery video message to the protesters, urging them to “fight back” against what he sees as a tyrannical drift in British politics. Addressing the crowd via live link, Musk warned that “violence is coming” if urgent changes aren’t made, a stark prediction that resonates with many who feel the establishment is pushing ordinary Britons to the brink. Downing Street wasted no time in piling on, with the PM’s official spokesman accusing the Tesla CEO of promoting “violence and intimidation on our streets.” “The UK is a fair, tolerant and decent country,” the spokesman huffed. “The last thing the British people want is this sort of dangerous and inflammatory language.”
Yet, from a right-leaning perspective, Musk’s intervention isn’t meddling—it’s a much-needed wake-up call from an outsider who’s unafraid to call out the failures of a Labour government that’s prioritized virtue-signaling over public safety. This isn’t Musk’s first rodeo in British affairs; earlier this year, he used his platform X (formerly Twitter) to ignite a national debate on the scandal of grooming gangs, exposing how authorities have failed vulnerable communities for years. That “war of words” with the government only underscores Musk’s role as a bulwark against censorship and cover-ups.
Activists fly flags and carry wooden crosses during the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ march in London. © Reuters
Saturday’s march, far from the chaotic riot Starmer’s allies are painting it as, started as a peaceful assembly of everyday people waving Union Jacks and demanding accountability. Violence did erupt, with 26 police officers injured—four seriously—and 24 arrests for offenses including affray, violent disorder, assault, and criminal damage. But let’s be clear: in a nation where protests against lockdowns or net zero policies often pass without a whimper from the left, this event’s scale (initial estimates pegged it at 110,000, later revised to 150,000) speaks to deep-seated anger over issues like unchecked migration and the two-tier policing that favors certain groups.
Starmer, ever the lawyer-turned-leader, issued a weekend statement condemning the “use of the flag as a symbol of violence, fear and division.” He insisted that “the right to peaceful protest was core to British values,” but drew a line at “assaults on police officers doing their job or for people feeling intimidated on our streets because of their background or the colour of their skin.” “Britain is a nation proudly built on tolerance, diversity and respect,” he proclaimed. “Our flag represents our diverse country and we will never surrender it to those that use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division.”
Katie Hopkins and Tommy Robinson at the rally. © PA
This rhetoric, while polished, smacks of the same divisive tactics the left has used to delegitimize conservative voices. By equating the Union Jack with “far-right” extremism, Starmer risks alienating the very working-class voters who propelled Reform UK to gains in recent elections. It’s a classic Labour move: smear patriots as thugs while ignoring the root causes—like the grooming scandals Musk highlighted—that fuel these gatherings.
Across the aisle, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey called Musk’s words “totally inappropriate,” whining that Britain’s democracy is “too precious to be a plaything for foreign tech barons.” In a letter to Starmer, Tory leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch, and Reform’s Nigel Farage, Davey demanded they all condemn the “dangerous” remarks. Badenoch has yet to respond publicly, but her track record suggests she’d view Musk as an ally in pushing back against woke overreach.
Activists take part in the March Against Fascism, organised by Stand Up To Racism. © PA
Farage, never one to shy from controversy, offered a nuanced take on Monday: “The context in which the words had been used left a degree of ambiguity.” He added, “If the fight that Musk was talking about was about standing up for our rights and free speech, if it was about fighting in elections to overcome the established parties, then that absolutely is the fight that we’re in.” Farage’s measured words cut through the hysteria, reminding us that Musk’s call to “fight back or die” could just as easily apply to the ballot box as the streets—especially with Labour’s approval ratings plummeting amid economic woes and border chaos.
As Britain grapples with these tensions, one thing is clear: Starmer’s attempt to “reclaim” the flag won’t silence the growing chorus of discontent. If anything, Musk’s bold stand has amplified it, proving that even from across the Atlantic, truth-tellers like him can shake the foundations of a government more interested in control than common sense.
September 14, 2025
Alleged Killer of Charlie Kirk Lived with Transgender Partner, Officials say
In a startling revelation that has deepened the intrigue surrounding the assassination of conservative firebrand Charlie Kirk, senior FBI officials have disclosed that the alleged gunman, Tyler Robinson, 22, was living with a transgender partner in a quiet Utah apartment. The partnership, described by authorities as romantic, has thrust an unexpected personal dimension into an already high-profile investigation, raising questions about the motives behind the slaying of one of the right-wing movement’s most prominent voices.
The disclosure comes as federal investigators continue to unravel the threads of what they describe as a meticulously planned attack on Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit powerhouse that has mobilized millions in conservative activism and youth outreach. Kirk’s death on Wednesday has sent shockwaves through political circles, prompting immediate concerns about the stability of conservative organizations and the broader implications for political discourse in an increasingly polarized America. Turning Point USA, which reported revenues exceeding $50 million in its most recent fiscal year according to IRS filings, now faces an uncertain future without its charismatic leader, with board members scrambling to appoint an interim successor amid a surge in donor inquiries and event cancellations.
According to multiple senior-level FBI officials who spoke exclusively to Fox News Digital on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing nature of the probe, Robinson shared an apartment in Saint George, Utah, with an unnamed individual—a biological male in the process of transitioning to female. The two were in a committed romantic relationship, sources confirmed, and the partner has emerged as a key figure in the FBI’s efforts to piece together Robinson’s mindset and preparations leading up to the shooting.
Forensic agents are seen at the apartment complex where Tyler Robinson, 22, the suspect in the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, lived in St. George, Utah, on Sept. 12, 2025. Kirk was shot dead while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 10. His widow pledged on Sept. 12 to continue his work after U.S. authorities announced the suspect’s capture. © Romain Fonsegrives/AFP
“Robinson’s partner is fully cooperating with the FBI’s investigation,” one official told Fox News Digital. Another described the individual as “extremely cooperative,” emphasizing that the person “had no idea” about Robinson’s alleged plot to assassinate Kirk. Importantly, the partner is not currently facing any criminal charges related to the incident, and the FBI has explicitly stated there is no evidence implicating them in the planning or execution of the attack.
The apartment in question is located in the same southern Utah community where Robinson’s parents reside, adding a layer of familial proximity to the narrative. Saint George, a conservative enclave in Washington County with a population of around 100,000, is roughly four hours by car from Utah Valley University in Orem, the site of the fatal shooting. This geographic detail has fueled speculation among investigators about whether Robinson selected the location for its relative seclusion or as a base for reconnaissance trips.
FBI agents executed a search warrant at the shared apartment shortly after Robinson’s arrest, seizing critical evidence including computers, electronic devices, and communications records. Text messages and other digital exchanges between Robinson and his partner were pivotal in helping agents identify and locate the suspect, officials revealed. The seized computers have been transported to the FBI’s forensic laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, for a thorough analysis, where experts will comb through hard drives, browsing history, and encrypted files for any signs of radicalization or external influences.
Washington City, Utah police stand outside a residence in Washington, Utah, associated with Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University, U.S., September 12, 2025. © REUTERS/Steve Marcus
The FBI declined to elaborate on the specifics of the communications or whether Robinson’s partner might face charges in the future. “We don’t comment on active investigations,” an agency spokesperson told reporters Friday afternoon. However, the spokesperson underscored the bureau’s commitment to exhaustive scrutiny: “The FBI is investigating a record number of tips. Every connection, every group, every link will be investigated, and anyone involved in this matter—anywhere in the world they might be—will be brought to justice.”
The assassination itself unfolded in dramatic fashion during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. Kirk, a married father of two young children and a staple on conservative media circuits, was addressing a crowd of students and supporters when the shots rang out. Authorities believe Robinson fired a single bullet from the roof of a nearby building, approximately 200 yards from the stage, striking Kirk in the chest. The conservative activist was pronounced dead at the scene despite immediate medical intervention.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage captured the moments leading up to the tragedy. Just seconds before the shot, an audience member posed a pointed question to Kirk: “Do you know how many transgender Americans have been mass shooters over the last 10 years?” Kirk, known for his unfiltered rhetoric on cultural issues, replied succinctly: “Too many.” The questioner followed up: “Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last 10 years?” Kirk responded: “Counting or not counting gang violence?” It was at that instant that the fatal shot was fired, leaving the crowd in chaos and igniting immediate debates about the role of inflammatory rhetoric in escalating political violence.
The weapon recovered—a bolt-action rifle—has become another focal point of the investigation. Law enforcement sources confirmed to Fox News Digital that the ammunition bore inscriptions with anti-fascist messaging, a detail first leaked via social media in a preliminary bulletin from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on Thursday morning. Utah Governor Spencer Cox addressed the findings during a somber press conference Friday, held at the state capitol in Salt Lake City.
A person walks past Utah County Security Center in Spanish Fork, where Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University, is currently being held, in Utah, U.S., September 12, 2025. © REUTERS/Jim Urquhart
“Investigators discovered inscriptions on casings found with the rifle near the campus,” Cox said, his voice steady but grave. “One used casing and three unused ones contained the writings.” The governor, a moderate Republican who has navigated tense cultural divides in the Beehive State, refrained from speculating on motives but called for national reflection. “This is a tragedy that touches every corner of our society. We must come together to ensure such acts of violence are met with swift justice and preventive measures.”
Robinson’s path to the alleged crime was marked by personal turmoil, according to family members and law enforcement. A law enforcement source familiar with the case told Fox News Digital that Robinson’s father played a pivotal role in his capture. The elder Robinson recognized his son from surveillance video images released publicly by FBI Director Kash Patel during the 33-hour manhunt that gripped the nation. Patel, a Trump-era appointee known for his aggressive stance on domestic threats, ordered the images disseminated to expedite the search.
When Robinson arrived unannounced at his parents’ home in Saint George shortly after the shooting, he reportedly expressed suicidal ideation. “He said he wanted to kill himself,” the source recounted. The father, torn between loyalty and duty, consulted with a family minister before contacting authorities. Robinson surrendered peacefully and has been in federal custody since Thursday, charged with first-degree murder and firearms offenses. He is being held without bail at a detention facility in Salt Lake City, awaiting an initial court appearance next week.
The case has broader ramifications for Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk built from a campus initiative into a multimillion-dollar conservative juggernaut. With annual events like the Turning Point Summit drawing thousands and generating significant revenue through sponsorships from donors including the Koch network and other GOP-aligned philanthropists, Kirk’s absence leaves a void. Financial analysts tracking nonprofit sectors note that leadership transitions in ideologically driven groups can lead to donor attrition—potentially as much as 20-30% in the first year, based on historical data from similar organizations like the Heritage Foundation during its post-founder eras.
A person sits in front of the Utah County Security Center in Spanish Fork, where Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University, is currently being held, in Utah, U.S., September 12, 2025. © REUTERS/Jim Urquhart
“Turning Point USA’s business model relies heavily on Kirk’s personal brand,” said political strategist and nonprofit expert Laura Kensington in an interview with this reporter. “His death could disrupt fundraising cycles, especially with midterms looming. Expect a spike in memorial contributions short-term, but long-term stability will depend on how quickly they pivot to new leadership.” The organization’s board has already announced a virtual town hall for donors on Monday, signaling efforts to reassure stakeholders.
As the FBI’s investigation presses forward, questions linger about Robinson’s influences. Was the anti-fascist inscription on the ammunition a lone-wolf manifesto or evidence of ties to extremist networks? Digital forensics from Quantico could provide answers, but for now, the bureau is casting a wide net, interviewing associates and monitoring online forums for copycat threats.
This tragedy underscores the volatile intersection of politics, identity, and violence in contemporary America. Kirk’s assassination not only robs the conservative movement of a key architect but also amplifies calls for enhanced security at political events—a market that private firms like Blackwater alumni-led companies are already eyeing for expansion. As Governor Cox put it, “Justice will be served, but healing will take time.”
September 13, 2025
‘His Mission Will Continue’: Erika Kirk Vows to Carry Forward Husband’s Legacy
© Courtesy of Erika Kirk/Instagram
Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, vowed to keep her husband’s movement alive with college tours and podcasts.
“The evildoers responsible for my husband’s assassination have no idea what they have done. … But they should all know this — if you thought that my husband’s mission was powerful before, you have no idea,” Mrs. Kirk said in a video statement Friday.
“You have no idea what you just have unleashed across this entire country,” she said. “In this world, you have no idea.”
Mr. Kirk, the co-founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, was speaking on the first stop of “The American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University in Orem on Wednesday when he was fatally shot. A 22-year-old Utah resident, Tyler Robinson, is in custody.
Mrs. Kirk thanked law enforcement, first responders, the followers and supporters of Turning Point USA, President Trump, and Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, both of whom flew Mr. Kirk’s casket and family to Arizona from Utah on Air Force Two on Thursday.
“My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children,” Mrs. Kirk said.
She said her husband’s campus tour will continue this fall and for years to come along with his radio and podcast show.
“And in a world filled with chaos, doubt and uncertainty, my husband’s voice will remain, and it will ring out louder and more clearly than ever, and his wisdom will endure,” she said.
She urged young Americans to get involved with Turning Point USA or start their own movement.
She spoke of her children and that her 3-year-old daughter asked where her father is and how she hasn’t found a way to tell her that he died, saying he’s on a “work trip with Jesus.”
On Instagram, Mrs. Kirk posted several photos of herself with his casket and videos of the casket being brought back on Air Force Two.
“The world is evil,” she wrote in the caption.
September 13, 2025
Charlie Kirk and the Generation of Political Influencers He Inspired
In the fractious landscape of American conservatism, few figures embodied the raw energy of grassroots mobilization quite like Charlie Kirk. By the time the 31-year-old activist and media mogul embarked on what would become his final campus speaking tour, he had transformed Turning Point USA from a fledgling nonprofit into a juggernaut with over 250,000 members. Founded in 2012 when Kirk was just 18, the organization became a linchpin in conservative political organizing, spearheading get-out-the-vote campaigns that influenced elections from school boards to Congress, securing tens of millions in funding from high-profile donors, and building a media empire that amplified right-wing voices across podcasts, social media, and live events.
Kirk’s assassination on September 10, 2025, during a “Prove Me Wrong” debate at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah, has left a void in the conservative movement. But his legacy endures through the countless young influencers he mentored, the debates he ignited, and the cultural shift he engineered toward unapologetic conservatism among millennials and Gen Z. At its core, Kirk’s mission was about more than policy wins—it was about fostering a new generation of political warriors, equipped to challenge liberal orthodoxy on college campuses and beyond. “Charlie didn’t just build an organization; he built people,” said one longtime associate, reflecting on how Kirk’s hands-on approach turned novices into power players.
The Foundations of a Movement: From Garage Startup to National Force
Charlie Kirk, founder and executive director of Turning Point USA, speaks at the High School Leadership Summit, a Turning Point USA event, at George Washington University in Washington on July 26, 2018. © Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in the suburbs of Chicago with the explicit goal of countering what he saw as progressive dominance in higher education. Starting with campus tabling events and provocative signage, the group quickly expanded into a sophisticated operation. By 2025, it boasted chapters at over 3,000 colleges and high schools, annual revenues exceeding $50 million—fueled by contributions from conservative heavyweights like the Bradley Foundation and anonymous megadonors—and a media arm that included Kirk’s daily podcast, The Charlie Kirk Show, which routinely drew millions of listeners.
Central to this growth was Kirk’s emphasis on debate as a tool for engagement. He viewed campuses not as hostile territory but as battlegrounds for ideas, where young conservatives could hone their arguments against a backdrop of often-hostile audiences. “Prove me wrong” became his rallying cry, emblazoned on tents and tables at events where he invited skeptics to challenge him on topics ranging from affirmative action to immigration. This approach wasn’t just performative; it was pedagogical, teaching a generation how to articulate conservative principles in the face of opposition.
Gunnar Thorderson, a former Turning Point USA organizer who helped establish the UVU chapter, epitomizes this model. Thorderson, now a member of the Utah Republican State Central Committee, credits Kirk with his ascent. “Charlie could’ve run his multi-million-dollar operation from a fancy suite, but he stayed in the trenches,” Thorderson told The Epoch Times in an interview shortly after Kirk’s death. “He invested in me one-on-one, mentoring me through challenges and turning me into a leader.” Thorderson’s story is emblematic: from chapter president to state director, his path was paved by Kirk’s personal guidance, including late-night strategy sessions and event collaborations.
Mentorship in Action: Launching Careers in Politics and Media
Kirk’s influence extended far beyond organizational ranks, propelling acolytes into the halls of power. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), a rising star in the House of Representatives, publicly attributed her political career to Kirk in an X post on September 11: “I owe my entire political career to Charlie Kirk. I would quite literally not be in office today if it weren’t for him. Even when my own party was working against me, Charlie endorsed me and campaigned to help me win election.”
Luna’s communications director, David Leatherwood, shares a similar trajectory. A self-described gay conservative, Leatherwood first encountered Kirk in 2017 during a campus tour in Fort Lauderdale. “We filmed a video together where he expressed support for the gay community, emphasizing ‘e pluribus unum’ for all Americans,” Leatherwood recounted to The Epoch Times. Kirk’s endorsement led to Leatherwood becoming a Turning Point ambassador, a role that opened doors in conservative circles. “He was always supportive, inviting me into the fold and helping me navigate the movement,” Leatherwood said.
These stories highlight Kirk’s knack for spotting talent and providing platforms. Turning Point’s ambassador program, which grew to include hundreds of young influencers, offered training in public speaking, social media strategy, and fundraising—skills that translated into real-world impact. Many alumni now host their own podcasts, run for office, or advise campaigns, forming a network that Kirk often called his “conservative army.”
Empowering Voices on Campus: From Shy Students to Bold Advocates
At the grassroots level, Kirk’s work resonated with students who felt marginalized in liberal-leaning academic environments. Hallie S., a 26-year-old from Gainesville, Florida, told The Epoch Times how Turning Point helped her revive the College Republicans chapter at Santa Fe College. “I was raised conservative but never spoke up in such a liberal area—you never know how people will react,” she said. Kirk’s campus visits and the organization’s resources changed that. “Charlie had a huge impact. Students saw their values represented in a fresh way, and it empowered us to be outspoken.”
Kelly Shackelford, president and CEO of the First Liberty Institute, a First Amendment advocacy group, recalled inviting Kirk to a Houston fundraiser early in his career. “Our events are usually filled with folks 60 and older,” Shackelford explained to The Epoch Times. “I wanted to show them that young people are carrying the torch. Charlie inspired that hope—he was proof the movement wouldn’t die with the older generation.”
Even beyond conservatives, Kirk’s reach touched unexpected audiences. A teenager named Tucker, who spoke to The Epoch Times on condition of anonymity due to fears of backlash, admitted he typically scrolls past political content on TikTok. “But Charlie’s stuff? I’d always click—it was interesting, and he was someone to look up to.” In a surprising anecdote, California Gov. Gavin Newsom revealed on his podcast in March 2025 that his 13-year-old son begged to skip school to meet Kirk. “He was obsessed: ‘What time is Charlie gonna be here?’” Newsom said, underscoring Kirk’s cross-generational appeal.
The Digital Frontier: Building an Online Empire
Kirk’s savvy use of social media amplified his message exponentially. With millions of followers across platforms, he turned viral clips of debates and commentary into a content machine. Leatherwood noted the enduring value of this digital footprint: “There are thousands of hours of footage—his thoughts, his views. They’ll memorialize his legacy in ways we can’t yet imagine.”
This online presence wasn’t just about reach; it was a business model. Turning Point’s media operations generated revenue through sponsorships, merchandise, and premium content, funding further expansion. Kirk’s podcast, often topping conservative charts, featured guests from politicians to cultural figures, fostering a ecosystem where young influencers could guest-host or collaborate.
The Power of Debate: Bridging Divides or Deepening Them?
Debate was Kirk’s signature tactic, but it wasn’t without controversy. Critics accused him of provocation, yet even opponents acknowledged his commitment to dialogue. Hunter Kozak, a 29-year-old UVU student and the last person to debate Kirk before the shooting, posted a video tribute: “I stand by so little of what he said, but he stood by conversation.” Dean Withers, another debater, broke down in tears during a livestream upon learning of the attack. In a follow-up video, he emphasized: “I disagreed with him profoundly, but no one deserves this. His kids didn’t deserve to watch their father die; his wife didn’t deserve to lose her husband.”
Students and other supporters holding a vigil to honor the memory of Charlie Kirk sing “Amazing Grace” at the University of Florida in Gainesville, on Sept. 11, 2025. © Courtesy of Natasha Holt
Thorderson defended Kirk’s approach: “He engaged students not as enemies but as people needing education through discourse. That’s how ideas win.” This philosophy, while polarizing, inspired a cadre of young conservatives to embrace public confrontation as a path to influence.
Beyond Politics: Faith, Family, and a Lasting Philosophy
Kirk’s worldview extended beyond the ballot box, rooted deeply in his Christian faith. Thorderson recalled a hotel gym workout that turned into a profound discussion: “I was struggling with my faith, playing devil’s advocate. Charlie was steadfast, connecting on a personal level without preaching.” Kirk’s knowledge spanned topics from philosophy to family values, which he prioritized even amid stardom. “He always valued family—starting one was core to him,” Thorderson said, noting Kirk’s early courtship of his wife, Erika.
Charlie Kirk Dead After Being Shot in Utah: What We Know About His Wife and Kids. © Erika Frantzve/Instagram/Courtesy
Kirk leaves behind Erika and their two young children, a family he often cited as his greatest achievement. In speeches, he linked conservatism to biblical principles, urging audiences to build strong homes as the foundation of a strong nation.
A Legacy in Motion
Kirk’s death has prompted soul-searching in conservative circles. Will Turning Point sustain its momentum without its charismatic founder? Early signs point to yes, with alumni like Thorderson and Luna stepping up. But the broader question lingers: Can the generation Kirk inspired carry forward his blend of debate, mentorship, and unyielding advocacy?
As tributes pour in—from lawmakers to everyday students—Kirk’s impact is clear. He didn’t just influence politics; he reshaped how a generation engages with it, proving that one voice, amplified through courage and connection, can echo for decades.
September 13, 2025
A Look at Charlie Kirk’s Last Days
Sisters Clara Hetland, 4, left, Haddie Hetland, center, 9, and Audra Hetland 6, of Surprise, Ariz., spend time at a makeshift memorial set up at Turning Point USA headquarters after the shooting death at a Utah college on Wednesday of Charlie Kirk, the co-founder and CEO of the organization, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in Phoenix. © AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin
In the high-stakes world of conservative media and political activism, few figures loomed as large as Charlie Kirk. At just 31 years old, the founder of Turning Point USA had built a multimillion-dollar empire blending podcasting, campus tours, and social media influence into a powerhouse that shaped Republican messaging and fundraising. His daily show, The Charlie Kirk Show, routinely topped charts on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, pulling in sponsorships from conservative donors and brands aligned with traditional values. Kirk’s reach extended far beyond U.S. borders, positioning him as a global ambassador for nationalism and Christianity—a brand that not only amplified his voice but also fueled a network of events and merchandise generating millions annually.
But Kirk’s meteoric rise came to a tragic end on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, when he was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The incident, which authorities are investigating as a possible targeted attack amid rising tensions over gun violence and political rhetoric, has sent shockwaves through the conservative ecosystem. Kirk, a father of two, leaves behind a wife and a movement that relied heavily on his charisma and unfiltered commentary.
In the week leading up to his death, Kirk’s activities were a whirlwind of typical intensity: social media barrages, international travel, podcast recordings, and live events. Drawing from his vast online megaphone—boasting over 2.5 million followers on X (formerly Twitter) and similar numbers across Instagram and YouTube—he focused on hot-button issues like crime, immigration, and cultural revival. His messaging often intersected with business interests, railing against “woke” corporate policies and advocating for policies that appealed to small-business owners wary of regulatory overreach. Here’s a detailed timeline of how Kirk spent his final days, pieced together from social media archives, event organizers, podcast transcripts, and statements from associates.
Thursday, September 4: Tweets Ignite Debates on Policy and Security
Kirk’s week kicked off with a flurry of activity on X, where he wielded his platform like a precision tool to rally supporters and provoke opponents. On Thursday morning, he posted a series of tweets celebrating the testimony of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during a contentious Senate hearing. Republicans, including Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), used the session to grill Kennedy on his overhaul of U.S. vaccine policies, which included scaling back mandates and emphasizing natural immunity—a move Kirk had long championed.
“RFK Jr. just dropped truth bombs in the Senate! Time to end the Big Pharma stranglehold,” Kirk tweeted at 9:17 a.m. ET, attaching a clip from C-SPAN footage of Kennedy’s remarks. He followed up with endorsements of proposed National Guard deployments to high-crime cities and immigration enforcement raids in Chicago, framing them as essential for “restoring law and order” amid what he called a “border crisis crippling American businesses.” Kirk’s posts garnered over 150,000 likes and retweets within hours, boosting engagement for his affiliate links to Turning Point USA merchandise.
Not stopping there, Kirk voiced support for a provocative idea floated by conservative lawmakers: renaming the Department of Defense the “Department of War.” “Why sugarcoat it? We’re in a war for America’s soul—and our economy,” he wrote, tying the concept to defense spending that he argued benefited military contractors and job creation in red states. These tweets, analyzed via X’s public API and archived by the Media Research Center, exemplified Kirk’s ability to blend policy critique with calls to action, often driving donations to his organization.
Sources close to Kirk, including a Turning Point USA spokesperson who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that these posts were part of a broader strategy to capitalize on midterm election momentum. “Charlie saw social media as his business model—quick hits that translated to real revenue,” the spokesperson said.
Friday, September 5: Touchdown in Seoul and a Dive into Asian Conservatism
By Friday, Kirk had shifted gears to his first major speaking tour in Asia, a move that underscored the global expansion of his brand. His celebrity, honed through U.S. college circuits and Fox News appearances, had caught fire internationally, with invitations from nationalist groups seeking his blueprint for countering “progressive decay.”
Kirk landed in Seoul at 5 a.m. local time (3 p.m. Wednesday in Arizona, his home base), as confirmed by Dr. Ji-Hoon Kim, moderator of the Build Up Korea 2025 conference. Wasting no time, he headed straight to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the heavily fortified border with North Korea. Photos posted to his Instagram Stories showed Kirk at Observation Post Oule, gazing north with a caption: “This is what happens when you let totalitarianism win. America, take note.”
That afternoon, Kirk took the stage at the Build Up Korea conference, a gathering of 1,200 conservative activists hosted by the Korea Liberty Union. Drawing parallels between South Korea’s resilience and America’s challenges, he urged the crowd to embrace Christianity as a bulwark against secularism. “Live according to biblical principles—protect your families, your faith, and have lots and lots of babies,” he declared, echoing his frequent calls for pronatalist policies to combat declining birth rates. Event footage, reviewed by Business Insider, showed enthusiastic applause, with Kirk signing books and posing for selfies afterward.
As he strolled Seoul’s streets, Kirk live-tweeted about the city’s “spotless” vibe and absence of visible crime, contrasting it with U.S. urban centers. “No needles on the sidewalks, no smash-and-grabs. Strict laws work!” he posted. When critics on X pointed to South Korea’s stringent gun laws, Kirk fired back: “Laws aren’t just about guns—they’re about culture and accountability. We need that back home.” This exchange, which trended under #KirkInKorea, highlighted his knack for turning travel into viral content, potentially opening doors for Asian sponsorships in his media ventures.
Sunday, September 7: Tokyo Spotlight and a Nationalist Nod
Kirk’s Asian tour continued apace. On Sunday, he arrived in Tokyo for a keynote at a conference organized by the Sanseito party, a right-wing populist group that had evolved from fringe status to a force in Japanese politics. Sanseito, known for its anti-immigration stance and warnings of a “silent invasion of foreigners,” saw Kirk as an ideological ally.
Speaking to a packed hall of 800 attendees, Kirk praised Japan’s cultural preservation efforts and drew parallels to U.S. nationalism. “You’re fighting the same battles we are—globalism eroding sovereignty, elites pushing open borders that hurt workers and businesses,” he said, according to a translated transcript provided by Sanseito spokesperson Akira Tanaka. Back in the U.S. later that day, Kirk shared a video message on X: “Japan gets it—national pride isn’t hate, it’s survival.”
The event’s timing aligned with Sanseito’s push for stricter immigration amid Japan’s aging population and labor shortages, themes Kirk wove into his talk on economic nationalism. Analysts note that such international alliances could have bolstered Turning Point’s global fundraising, estimated at $50 million annually from donors worldwide.
Coinciding with U.S. time zones, an episode of The Charlie Kirk Show dropped on Sunday, titled “A Revival of Christian Men is Necessary.” Recorded at his Phoenix-area church with guest Steve Deace, another conservative podcaster, the 90-minute discussion lambasted evangelical churches for being “too woke” and warned of Islam’s “takeover” in the West. Deace later told The Daily Wire that the episode was taped “a few days prior,” capturing Kirk’s raw energy. It quickly amassed 500,000 downloads, underscoring the podcast’s role as a revenue driver through ads from faith-based financial services.
Monday, September 8: Crime Takes Center Stage in Media Blitz
Returning stateside, Kirk doubled down on crime, a narrative that had surged in conservative media amid 2025’s spike in urban violence statistics from the FBI. In Monday’s podcast episode, he dedicated over 30 minutes to advocating for harsher sentencing, calling for “more prisons, fewer excuses” to protect “law-abiding entrepreneurs from chaos.”
Social media amplified his focus on the murder of Iryna Zarutska, a 28-year-old Ukrainian refugee stabbed on a Charlotte light-rail train. Kirk highlighted the suspect’s Black race and prior convictions for robbery and breaking and entering, framing it as evidence of “failed soft-on-crime policies.” His posts sparked a feud with CNN’s Van Jones, who accused him of “racemongering and hatemongering” on air. Kirk retorted on X: “Facts aren’t hate—importing crime without borders hurts everyone, especially minority communities.” The clash, covered by Politico, boosted Kirk’s visibility, with his follower count jumping 10,000 overnight.
Tuesday–Wednesday, September 9–10: The Final Tour and Tragedy
Tuesday was prep for Kirk’s ambitious “The American Comeback” college tour, a 15-stop circuit designed to energize young voters and recruit for Turning Point—events that historically raised six figures per stop through ticket sales and donations. On Wednesday, he flew to Utah, texting Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) en route: “Heading your way—let’s make campuses great again,” per Lee’s office.
At 11:34 a.m. MT, Kirk’s last X post went live: a promo for his Utah Valley University appearance, featuring his signature “Prove Me Wrong” debate table. By 12:09 p.m., he was onstage, tossing branded hats to the crowd of 400 students and locals. Fifteen minutes in, amid Q&A on gun violence, shots rang out. Kirk was hit and pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The shooter, identified as 22-year-old UVU student Marcus Hale, was subdued by security; motives remain under investigation by the FBI, with early reports citing online radicalization. Tributes poured in from figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Elon Musk, who called Kirk “a warrior for truth.”
Kirk’s death raises questions for the conservative media business: Who fills the void? Turning Point USA, valued at over $100 million in assets, faces a leadership transition, but his blueprint—blending faith, nationalism, and anti-crime fervor—endures. As one insider put it, “Charlie didn’t just talk; he built an empire. His last days were business as usual—until they weren’t.”
September 12, 2025
Secret Service Faces Backlash Over Agent Cheering Kirk’s Murder
Sen. Marsha Blackburn sent a letter to Secret Service Director Sean Curran Thursday, demanding the immediate firing of a special agent who argued in a social media post that Charlie Kirk deserved to die.
Blackburn, a Tennessee Republican, wrote the letter after RealClearPolitics reported that the agent, Anthony Pough, blamed “karma” for the killing of the founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University Wednesday.
The assassin remains at large, and the FBI is engaged in a desperate manhunt to apprehend the killer. Kirk, 31, was a prominent conservative influencer close to President Trump, who credits Kirk and his organization for helping him make substantial inroads with young voters leading to his electoral victory last fall.
Pough posted on Facebook: “if you are Mourning this guy .. [sic] delete me. He spewed hatred and racism on his show.”
“Especially when we should be mourning the innocent children killed in Colorado,” Pough continued. “At the end of the day, you answer to GOD and speak things into existence. You can only circumvent karma, she doesn’t leave.”
Earlier this year, Pough, who is black, also posted several Facebook posts criticizing Trump for attempting to ban diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and initiatives through the federal government.
“DEI stops NEPOTISM,” Pough argued in one Facebook post. “That’s the problem they have, [sic] That’s the root issue.”
In another post, Pough took issue with Trump’s firing of Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., who served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under President Biden and refused to resign after Trump was inaugurated for his second term. It’s customary for presidents to choose new military advisers, especially when the president representing a different party is elected.
Pough took issue with the firing on his Facebook account, using angry and cursing emojis.
“So you fired him because you don’t know if he was a “DEI” hire,” Pough wrote. “You assumed because he is BLACK he had to be. He is the chairman of the JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF [sic] and obviously you can only attain such a high class position based on MERIT.”
“This is RACISM,” he added.
In the letter to Curran, Blackburn blasted the agency, which she argued is in dire need of reform, and called for immediate action for what she called “inexcusable” conduct.
“Put simply, your employee celebrated and attempted to justify a political assassination,” she wrote. “This conduct is inexcusable, and I urge you in the strongest possible terms to immediately terminate his employment.”
By the time Blackburn had sent the letter, Curran had already placed Pough on administrative leave, a knowledgeable Secret Service source told RCP. Two sources also said the agency has plans to fire Pough but did not provide a timeline for when that would happen.
Kirk’s murder has been denounced across the political spectrum with almost every prominent elected Democrat speaking out against the political violence. Within conservative circles – and especially within the Trump administration – these concerns have been heightened by a sense of personal tragedy for a young husband and father whom many called a close friend. Vice President JD Vance solemnly carried Kirk’s casket, along with other pallbearers, after Air Force 2, Vance’s official plane, transported Kirk’s body from Utah to Phoenix, Arizona, on Thursday.
The outspoken MAGA influencer, who was famous for debating college students, encouraged political debate with political adversaries and this year appeared on California Gov. Newsom’s podcast, has plenty of detractors, many of whom have not reacted with solemnity, and in some cases have even celebrated his death on social media.
After conservative influencers pointed out that several military personnel and Department of War civilians had posted derogatory remarks on social media about Kirk after his death, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, a friend of Kirk’s, on Wednesday called such public comments “completely unacceptable.”
“We are tracking all these very closely — and will address, immediately.” Hegseth posted on X.com.
Rep. Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, on Thursday said he would use his congressional authority to pressure social media organizations to enforce their own rules about advocating or condoning violence.
“I’m going to use Congressional authority and every influence with big tech platforms to mandate [an] immediate ban for life of every post or commenter that belittled the assassination of Charlie Kirk,” Higgins wrote.
Many conservative commentators, including investigative journalist Michael Shellenberger, have pushed back against the notion pushed by some leftists that Kirk created the environment that killed him.
“It’s a grotesque lie,” Shellenberger said in an X.post Thursday. “For 20+ years, Democrats dehumanized conservatives to the point that half the Left says Trump’s murder can be justified. Little wonder their condolences are falling on deaf ears.”
Even before Blackburn issued her letter to Curran, which RCP first reported, the Secret Service said it wouldn’t tolerate one of its agents, whose job description is to protect political figures from assassination, endorsing Kirk’s killing.
“The U.S. Secret Service will not tolerate any behavior which violates our code of conduct,” a Secret Service spokesperson told RCP in a statement. “We are aware of the employee’s social media post from today, and the individual has been placed on administrative leave as we investigate the matter.”
Before the Secret Service took action against the agent, his Facebook post about Kirk was circulating within the federal law enforcement community with some sources expressing concern that an agent, entrusted with protecting political figures and the U.S. continuity of government, would effectively celebrate an assassination of someone so close to Trump after the two assassination attempts last year against the now-president.
“If that’s all it takes to set you off, that’s dangerous to have around,” one source in the Secret Service community told RCP.
“I’m mostly concerned about the morals of a person sworn to protect the rights of others to engage in politics and exercise free speech, celebrating the death of someone exercising those same rights,” the source added.
Pough, a relatively new agent, having graduated from training in 2022, is part of the agency’s Presidential Protective Division but is not on a detail regularly charged with protecting Trump. Yet, all agents, at times, could be called off their official duties to contribute to presidential coverage.
Blackburn, who was highly critical of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle after the assassination attempt against Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, last year, asserted in her letter that the Secret Service has been an agency “full of political actors and in desperate need of reform.”
She was one of several Republican senators who chastised Cheatle during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last year, after the former director refused to answer their questions about the agency’s failures in Butler.
The Tennessee senator, who is running for governor, in her letter to Curran said those failures would “forever be a stain on the Secret Service.” The agent’s postings about Kirk, she argued, “makes clear that one year later bad actors must be rooted out of your agency.”
“President Trump and all Secret Service protectees deserve nothing less,” she said.
“You noted in a statement earlier this year that you recognize ‘the importance of accountability’ at the Secret Service,” she added. “I implore you to abide by that statement and ensure that this employee never steps foot in Secret Service headquarters ever again.”
For many in the agency, Pough’s posts were like déjà vu all over again.
Just before Trump’s first election, in October 2016, Kerry O’Grady, a now-retired senior Secret Service agent suggested in a Facebook post just weeks before the 2016 election that she wouldn’t take a bullet for Trump.
The Secret Service didn’t take any disciplinary action against O’Grady, who was serving as the boss of the Denver Field Office, for that social media post, even though it was well known throughout the agency she had written it with many agents deeply concerned about the leadership’s lack of response.
After this reporter wrote a story about O’Grady’s post, the agency placed O’Grady on paid administrative leave for nearly two years to allow her to hit her retirement date. She left the agency in 2019 with full pension benefits.
September 12, 2025