Tag: Politics

Amy Coney Barrett Says Charlie Kirk’s Death Highlights Importance of Kindness
Judge Amy Coney Barrett in Washington on Oct. 1, 2020. © Erin Scott-Pool/Getty Images
Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett said the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk is a tragic reminder of why Americans must find ways to settle disagreements through civil discourse rather than violence.
Barrett made the remarks on Sept. 12 during an appearance at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, where she was promoting her new book, “Listening to the Law: Reflections on the Court and Constitution.”
Asked about the killing at the start of the event, she urged students to model a better way of engaging across political divides.
Asked by the moderator to comment on Kirk’s killing, which took place on Sept. 10 in Utah, Barrett said it’s important to have disagreements in “a civil and collegial way.”
“Too often when I look around the country—I mean political violence is the most grotesque symptom of it, but there are others, too, just in online conversations and the way that people treat those with whom they disagree,” Barrett said.
“And that’s actually one of the points that I tried to make in the book. It’s just not a way to run a society.”
“You can have a spirited debate without tearing somebody down,” she added during the Q&A portion of the event.
Barrett briefly acknowledged her own security concerns, saying she felt safe under round-the-clock protection.
“I’m in very good hands,” she said.
Security for Supreme Court justices has drawn heightened attention since 2022, when a man was arrested near Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s home and charged with attempting to assassinate him.
A Nation on Edge
Just hours before Barrett’s appearance, Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika, delivered an emotional message during a livestream on Turning Point USA’s YouTube channel. It was her first public appearance since her husband’s assassination two days earlier.
“The evil-doers for my husband’s assassination have no idea what they have done,” she said.
“The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.”
Vowing to continue her husband’s work, she said the movement he launched as a high school project and turned into a national campus force would not be silenced.
Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University.
Known for his “prove me wrong” campus debates and emphasis on engaging young voters, the 31-year-old was just minutes into his latest campus tour stop when a gunshot ended his life.
Authorities later announced the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who was detained on suspicion of aggravated murder and related charges.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said investigators recovered a Mauser 98 .30-06 bolt-action rifle with a scope, allegedly used in the attack. Bullet casings at the scene carried engraved messages, some with anti-fascist slogans and others referencing taunting internet memes, according to authorities.
One casing allegedly read “Hey fascist! Catch!” followed by directional arrow symbols resembling a video game code. Another bullet allegedly carried lyrics from the World War II-era Italian anti-fascist song “Bella Ciao.”
Cox said the suspect had become “more political in recent years” and had discussed Kirk with family, saying he disliked him for “spreading hate.”
Kirk’s killing has intensified concerns that the country may be entering a new era of political violence.
Susan MacManus, a veteran Florida political analyst, told The NY Budgets that the tragedy could be a catalyst for change—but only if lawmakers use it to recommit to civility.
“But is it going to be a catalyst for the two parties coming together and saying, ‘Enough of this’?” she asked.
“Or is it just going to be a catalyst for even further deepening the polarization in this country?”
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
Turning Point USA to Hold Memorial for Founder Charlie Kirk
The conservative political nonprofit Turning Point USA has announced a Sept. 21. memorial service for its late founder, Charlie Kirk.
Set to take place at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, the memorial service will honor the 31-year-old political commentator, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 10, while leading a campus speaking tour.
“Charlie died doing what he loved: fighting for truth, for faith, for family, and for America. His sacrifice will endure as a guiding light for generations,” Turning Point USA said in a statement on Sept. 13 announcing the tribute event.
State Farm Stadium is the home of the Arizona Cardinals NFL football team and is located a short distance from Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix.
Kirk cofounded the organization in 2012, with support from the late businessman and conservative political activist Bill Montgomery.
“What began as the vision of an 18-year-old in a small garage in Lemont, Illinois, grew into one of the most powerful grassroots movements in America,” Turning Point USA’s announcement reads.
A leading focus of Turning Point USA has been engaging high school and college-aged individuals in politics.
Throughout his career as a conservative influencer, Kirk frequented college campuses, delivering speeches to inspire other young conservatives and engaging in debates with his ideological opponents. He was just moments into a campus debate event at Utah Valley University, on the first stop of his American Comeback Tour, when he was struck by gunfire.
By the time of his death, Kirk had overseen the expansion of Turning Point USA into a multi-million-dollar organization with more than 250,000 student members, and chapters on around 800 college campuses around the country.
In addition to founding Turning Point USA to support campus-level conservative activism, Kirk led the formation of Turning Point Action to support voter registration and mobilization efforts.
Kirk’s influence brought him in direct contact with a range of top-level politicians, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Vance helped escort Kirk’s casket on Sept. 11, as it arrived in Arizona the day after he was killed.
On Sept. 12, while addressing the public for the first time following his death, Kirk’s wife, Erika, described the vice president as her husband’s “dear friend.”
Kirk’s influence crossed party lines and even national boundaries. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris both joined in condemning Kirk’s killing, as did Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“Charlie’s life was short, but it was full. It was defined by truth, anchored in faith, and devoted to the country he loved. His legacy will endure for generations,” Turning Point USA said on Sept. 13.
The Sept. 21 memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. local time, and doors will open at 8 a.m.
September 13, 2025
Sadiq Khan Faces Backlash Over Admission He Knew of Police Station Closures
The row over the imminent closure of many London police stations to the public has taken a new twist after Sir Sadiq Khan revealed he has been aware of the controversial plans since last year.
The London mayor said the proposals were part of Met commissioner Sir Mark Rowley’s “tough choices” presentation, dating from last November or December, that set out how the force would concentrate on key priorities to cope with a long-term funding crisis.
However, politicians from all parties on the London Assembly say they did not learn of the threat to shut up to 18 police station “front counters” until July.
There are currently 37 front counters in operation across the Met, of which 32 are 24/7, with five open for a limited number of hours.
Under the proposals, only eight police stations in London would remain open round the clock.
Sir Sadiq, who made a manifesto pledge in the run-up to the 2024 mayoral election to keep a “24-hour police front office counter in every borough”, said this week that the closure of front counters was an “operational decision” for the Met.
Open all hours: Sadiq Khan’s 2024 manifesto pledge on police stations. © Sadiq Khan
Asked why he had broken a manifesto pledge, he said: “When the facts change, I change my mind.”
He said the front counter closures would save £7m – while keeping them open would be “wasting resources”.
He told Mayor’s Question Time at City Hall on Thursday: “Very few Londoners use the front counters – it’s just a fact.
“I would be a fool to be dogmatic and not follow the evidence from the police service.”
He was asked by Gareth Roberts, a Lib-Dem assembly member: “When exactly were you first made aware of this decision to axe front counters across London?”
Sir Sadiq replied: “It was in the ‘tough choices’ presentation the commissioner did in November/December, during one of the iterations of the [Met police] budget].”
Mr Roberts said: “So for the best part of a year you’ve known about this – but the assembly only found out in July.”
The Mayor is also the police and crime commissioner for London. He said Boris Johnson, who was mayor between 2008 and 2016, closed more than 80 front counters.
Many of the police stations would remain in use for officers and police staff but the public would not be able to report crimes in person or speak to officers about other issues of concern.
Police stations at risk include Chingford, Edmonton, Kentish Town, Kensington, Tottenham, Twickenham, Lavender Hill and Wimbledon.
The London police station counters that will remain open
The 18 police stations that are expected to close to the public © Metropolitan police
Only 20 front counters would remain open across the capital, meaning residents in more than a third of boroughs would not have a local police station.
Of these, only eight would be open on a 24/7 basis, according to Hayley Sewart, the Met’s commander for frontline policing.
The others would be open during the week from 9am to 10pm and from 10am to 7pm at weekends.
The Met says that only five per cent of crimes are reported in person at a police station.
But critics say this still adds up to 50,000 crimes a year – and that the reporting of crime only amounts to a fifth of all visits to police stations.
Asked whether he was happy with the way the Met had communicated the closure plans, Sir Sadiq said: “On reflection, I think even the police would accept that things could have been handled differently. I apologise for that.”
The Met’s change of approach will mean an additional 500 officers being deployed in “community crime fighting” and town centre teams.
Mr Roberts told The Standard after the meeting: “The mayor stood for election last year on a clear promise that every Londoner would have a 24/7 police front counter in their borough.
“This week he finally admitted he’s known since last year that closure was on the cards, but chose not to say anything at all about it until this July.
“Now he’s washing his hands of the decision entirely and saying it’s an operational decision for the Met, but the fact is simple: he made a pledge to Londoners and he’s broken it.
“Trust in both politics and policing is already fragile – the very least Londoners deserve is a mayor who keeps his word and fights to defend these vital services.”
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
Former Tesla Executive Takes Aim at Musk’s Management Style
Stock Widget
Tesla’s TSLA -4.75% ▼ 2025 has been forgettable, to say the least.

Deliveries dropped hard in Q2, tanking nearly 14% year-over-year, marking Tesla’s worst quarterly sales drop in over a decade.
Also, the U.S. EV market share dropped to 38% in August, the first time it has fallen below 40% since 2017, with legacy automakers and new players closing in.
Moreover, the stock has been on a rollercoaster.
After its market cap peaked near $1.24 trillion in February, Tesla’s market cap plunged to $916 billion by March, erasing a whopping $300 billion in value before clawing back. Also, shares remain flat year-to-date, lagging broader market gains in the tech space.
Then there’s the incredible reputational damage. Political firestorms, product delays, and a stream of high-level exits continue to test investor patience.
2025 Tesla Cybertruck. © Greg Pajo|Car/Driver
Now, another senior executive is out, and his exit has been far from quiet. His blunt criticism of leadership sharpens concerns that Tesla’s challenges aren’t just cyclical, but also structural.
Senior engineer’s exit adds to Tesla leadership strain
Tesla’s leadership churn just had another spotlight moment.
Senior engineer Giorgio Balestrieri, who joined the EV pioneer in 2017 and was involved in its Autobidder energy-trading platform, announced his departure on LinkedIn this week, putting Elon Musk squarely at the center of it.
Balestrieri wrote on LinkedIn:
“All this being said, I do need to address the elephant in the room: The main reason I’m leaving is that I think Elon has dealt huge damage to Tesla’s mission (and to the health of democratic institutions in several countries).
“Beyond that, Elon’s leadership and decision making seem seriously compromised. Given his huge (and growing, inexplicably) stake in Tesla, I can’t convince myself anymore that this is the right place to be.”
For context, after his stake dipped to 12.7% to 13% post-Twitter sales, Tesla’s August stock award of a whopping $29 billion could lift his holding to over 15%.
Additionally, the board also floated a “$1 trillion” performance package, which could potentially boost his voting power toward 25% over time.
Tesla’s stock has weathered a ton of criticism from Musk, but steady departures of long-tenured engineers raise a ton of questions for investors.
Leadership credibility matters critically in advanced energy platforms, and when insiders question it, the cost of capital and talent retention become major long-term issues.
More exits pile up as the Tesla brand takes a hit
The Balestrieri departure isn’t an isolated event.
Over the past year, we’ve seen at least eight senior leaders walk, spanning sales, software, robotics, and service.
Some of the recent high-profile exits over the past 12 months include:
- Troy Jones, VP sales/service/delivery (North America): Left July 15, 2025
- Piero Landolfi, director of service (North America): Departed Aug. 11, 2025
- Omead Afshar, head of sales & manufacturing (NA/EU): Exited late June 2025
- Milan Kovac, head of Optimus (humanoid robot): Announced his exit on June 6, 2025
- David Lau, VP of software engineering: Stepped down in April 2025
Also notable in 2025 were key exits of personnel such as Vineet Mehta in batteries, David Imai in design, and Pete Bannon, who led Tesla’s Dojo supercomputer project.
These developments should be troubling for Tesla investors, as this isn’t just about swapping nameplates. It involves losing institutional memory across sales, service, and next-gen platforms.
In markets where talent and trust are paramount, frequent senior departures slow recruiting flywheels, denting a company’s reputation in the process.
These effects rarely show up in a single quarter, but are likely to compound over time in valuation multiples.
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
Visual Timeline of Charlie Kirk’s Assassination
Charlie Kirk, founder of nonprofit Turning Point USA, speaks before being shot during his visit to Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 10, 2025. © Tess Crowley/The Deseret News via AP
Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk was killed by a single gunshot at a crowded event at a Utah college on Sept. 10. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox described the act as a “political assassination.”
Authorities announced the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, the suspected assassin, during a press conference on Sept. 12.
Here’s what we know about the shooting and the aftermath so far.
The Assassination
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was speaking at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, in the first campus event of TPUSA’s American Comeback tour.
By noon, an estimated 3,000 students had gathered around his tent, which displayed his challenge to the students “prove me wrong.”
Six university police officers were on duty at the event, along with Kirk’s own private security team, according to authorities.
Kirk began fielding the second question of the day.
“Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last 10 years?” a man in the crowd asked Kirk.
“Counting or not counting gang violence?” Kirk replied. It was about 12:20 p.m. local time.
One shot was fired. Graphic video footage taken by spectators showed the bullet pierce the left side of Kirk’s neck.
Kirk was quickly surrounded by his security team, carried into an SUV, and taken to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where initial reports said he was in critical condition.
As the thousands of people ran for cover, video footage caught what appeared to be a person running across the roof of a nearby building.
Kirk’s death was publicly announced by President Donald Trump on Truth Social at 4:40 p.m. ET.
Alleged Assassin Captured After Manhunt
Family members of the suspect assisted authorities after identifying their son as the individual allegedly responsible for killing Kirk.
Robinson was convinced by his father to turn himself in, President Donald Trump said during a Fox News interview on Sept. 12.
“The father convinced the son, this is it … I’m always subject to being corrected … but based on what I’m hearing,” the president said.
“Essentially, somebody who was very close to him” recognized Robinson from security footage, Trump said.
The suspect indicated “or implied” to a family member that he was responsible for the shooting, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said in a Friday press conference. That family member then told a family friend, who contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office with the information.
One family member told investigators that Robinson had mentioned Kirk’s appearance at UVU over the dinner table recently, Cox said.
“They talked about why they didn’t like him and the viewpoints that he had. The family member also stated Kirk was full of hate and spreading hate,” Cox said.
Messages allegedly from Robinson sent on Discord to an unnamed roommate who spoke with investigators described his attempt to recover the rifle that he allegedly hid in the woods after the shooting, Cox said.
The arrest potentially concludes a manhunt conducted by the FBI and the Utah Department of Public Safety that began immediately after Kirk was killed.
Two persons of interest were separately detained and questioned on Sept. 10, but were cleared and later released.
Following the Killer’s Movements
Beau Mason, commissioner of Utah’s Department of Public Safety, confirmed on Sept. 11 that investigators had determined the suspect arrived on campus at 11:52 a.m. local time on Sept. 10. They were then able to track his movements through campus, up stairwells, and onto the roof to the shooting location.
The roof was on a building named the Losee Center, approximately 200 yards from where Kirk was seated.
The suspect fired a single shot at Kirk. No other people were hit.
Afterward, Mason said investigators tracked the suspect moving to the other side of the building, jumping off, and fleeing campus into a neighborhood.
Mason added that the suspect appeared to be college-aged and “blended well in a college institution.”
The FBI later released images of a “person of interest,” depicting a slim male wearing sunglasses, a black, long-sleeved t-shirt with what appeared to be a graphic of the American flag, blue jeans, and a baseball cap.
The FBI released photos, along with a message urging the public to help identify a “person of interest” in relation to the Sept. 10 fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk. © FBI
Political Messages Inscribed on Bullet Casings
Cox said that investigators recovered a Mauser .30-06 rifle with four rounds of ammunition—one fired and three unfired.
Bullet casings were inscribed with political messages and other engravings, he said.
The fired casing was allegedly marked, “Notices, bulges, OWO, what’s this?” he said.
One unfired round allegedly read, “Hey fascists! Catch!” It also had a drawn up arrow, a right arrow, and three down arrow symbols.
Another round allegedly read, “O bella ciao, bella ciao, ciao, ciao,” seemingly referring to an Italian anti-fascist song from WWII.
The last casing was allegedly inscribed with, “If you read this, you are gay LMAO.”
In terms of forensics, investigators have a footwear impression, a palm print, and forearm imprints for analysis.
Law enforcement officials, including members of an FBI forensics team, investigate near the crime scene where Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 11, 2025. © Melissa Majchrzak/AFP via Getty Images
Charging Documents Coming Soon
Cox told reporters to expect charging documents “early next week,” as Utah state law allows three days for authorities to gather evidence while a suspect is in custody before filing official charges.
Trump has called for the death penalty, which is permissible in Utah for those convicted of aggravated first-degree murder.
September 12, 2025
Rubio Blasts Conviction of Brazil’s Bolsonaro, Promises U.S. Action
U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio on Sept. 11 vowed the United States would respond after Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro was convicted of attempting a coup to remain in power.
The Brazilian Supreme Court sentenced Bolsonaro to 27 years and three months in prison after convicting him of plotting to overturn the 2022 election results—which he lost to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva—making him the first former president in Brazil convicted of a coup attempt.
Rubio said Bolsonaro’s conviction was a “witch hunt” and said the U.S. government “will respond accordingly,” without specifying what the actions might be.
“The political persecutions by sanctioned human rights abuser [Supreme Court Justice] Alexandre de Moraes continue, as he and others on Brazil’s supreme court have unjustly ruled to imprison former President Jair Bolsonaro,” Rubio stated on X.
The political persecutions by sanctioned human rights abuser Alexandre de Moraes continue, as he and others on Brazil's supreme court have unjustly ruled to imprison former President Jair Bolsonaro.

The United States will respond accordingly to this witch hunt.
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) September 11, 2025
In response, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry accused Rubio of attacking the country’s authority and said that its democracy will not be intimidated.
The ministry added that Rubio’s statement “ignores the facts and the compelling evidence on record” that led to Bolsonaro’s conviction.
“We will continue to defend the sovereignty of the country against aggressions and interference attempts, no matter where they come from,” the ministry stated on X.
We will continue to defend the sovereignty of the country against aggressions and interference attempts, no matter where they come from.
— Itamaraty Brazil 🇧🇷 (@Itamaraty_EN) September 11, 2025
A five-justice panel of Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Bolsonaro on five counts, including an attempted coup, being part of an armed criminal organization, attempted violent abolition of democratic rule of law, damage characterized by violence, and a serious threat against the state’s assets and deterioration of listed heritage.
Bolsonaro has denied all allegations.
One member of the court, Justice Luiz Fux, voted to acquit Bolsonaro of all five charges, saying there was insufficient evidence for any of the prosecutors’ claims.
Commenting on the court’s decision on Sept. 11, President Donald Trump said that he was “very unhappy” with the conviction, and that it was “very bad for Brazil.”
“I thought he was a good president of Brazil, and it’s very surprising that could happen,” Trump said of Bolsonaro’s conviction.
In July, Trump imposed a 50 percent tariff on Brazilian imports over the prosecution of Bolsonaro. The U.S. government also sanctioned Justice Moraes and revoked his visa, along with those of his judicial allies and their family members, over what it called “censorship of protected expression in the United States” following Bolsonaro’s trial.
Lula has condemned the moves as interference in the Brazilian justice system. The Brazilian president warned that any “unilateral tariff increases” by the Trump administration will be addressed in line with Brazil’s economic reciprocity laws.
September 12, 2025
Charlie Kirk’s Murder Sends Shockwaves Through Washington and Westminster
Charlie Kirk, a lifelong advocate for free speech, the leader of the nation’s preeminent conservative youth organization, and a beloved confidant of the first family, was fatally shot Wednesday afternoon while speaking with students at Utah Valley University.
President Trump confirmed the news in a post on Truth Social, writing that Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, “was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.” Flags at the White House were lowered to half-staff in his honor. Kirk was 31. He is survived by his wife and two young children.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced Wednesday evening that a “subject” had been taken into custody, but has since been released following initial interrogation.
The murder sent ripples of shock, sorrow, and anger through the Trump family, the Republican Party, and the entire conservative movement. A vanguard of a new and brasher kind of conservatism, Kirk rose to prominence with a willingness to discuss and debate any topic with students on any campus. The exchanges regularly went viral online, introducing a new generation to the long-established ideas of the right. Observed Vice President JD Vance, “He would answer any question and talk to everyone.”
Some also observed a cruel irony in the life cut short: Kirk was engaged in debate, not violence, to win over his political opponents when an assassin’s bullet struck him in the neck on Wednesday. According to a spokesman for the university, the shot was fired from a building 200 yards away from where Kirk was speaking outdoors. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.
“I want to be very clear that this is a political assassination,” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said at a press conference, noting that the late conservative firebrand was engaged in constitutionally protected speech. “When someone takes the life of someone because of their ideas or their ideals,” the Republican added, “then our constitutional foundation is threatened.”
The FBI had sent federal agents to the scene to assist in the ongoing investigation while the murder reignited a debate about the dangers of overheated rhetoric. The previous presidential campaign was replete with it. Former President Biden dubbed Trump an existential threat to democracy, and though the Democrat condemned violence then, and again after the murder of Kirk, the right accuses the left of stoking the flames of anarchy.
After the first attempt on Trump’s life, Vance drew a direct line from that kind rhetoric to the rifle barrel of the foiled assassin who fired at the president in Butler, Pennsylvania, last July. “Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs,” the Ohio senator wrote at the time. “That rhetoric led directly to President Trump’s attempted assassination.”
Conservatives now see in the Kirk assassination a resurgence of 1960s-style radicalism. “The last time the radical Left orchestrated a wave of violence and terror, J. Edgar Hoover shut it all down within a few years,” Chris Rufo wrote of that FBI director. A conservative activist with close ties to the Trump administration, he added, “It is time, within the confines of the law, to infiltrate, disrupt, arrest, and incarcerate all of those who are responsible for this chaos.”
While Democratic leaders from Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were quick to condemn the violence, others on the left seemed to suggest that the attack on Kirk was the product of his own rhetoric. On MSNBC, former Republican strategist Matthew Dowd said of the conservative commentator, he is “constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech, aimed at certain groups. And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions.” MSNBC later apologized for the “inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable” comments.
Before his death, Kirk was at the zenith of his power. Behind the scenes last summer, along with Donald Trump Jr., he quietly and successfully lobbied Trump to pick Vance as his running mate. He had risen from the ranks of online influencer, famous for “owning the libs,” to the leader of a legitimate MAGA juggernaut. Ahead of the 2024 election, his fans became engaged activists, and Turning Point Action, the political arm of his organization, knocked on hundreds of thousands of doors in support of Republicans.
Kirk was prolific across mediums. He recorded an eponymous, three-hour-long daily radio show, appeared regularly on cable news programs, and authored four books. His most recent title: “Right Wing Revolution: How to Beat the Woke and Save the West.” He also contributed frequent commentary to the op-ed pages of RealClearPolitics.
“America’s Future is a series of choices,” Kirk said on stage during the Milwaukee Republican National Convention. In an address geared towards millennial and Gen Z voters, he bellowed, “Our current state of slow motion, national decline is a choice this November, we’re going to choose success. We’re going to choose to put the future of Americans first. We are going to choose to no longer be spectators in this election. We, together, are going to do the work to save America.”
This reporter covered Kirk aggressively through his rise from campus provocateur to White House powerbroker. He and his staff, at times, quibbled about those stories as all political operatives are wont to do. But Kirk always remained good-natured, and his staff professional. More than one journalist relied on his insights as they attempted to navigate the universe of Donald Trump, a world that Kirk not only knew well but indeed helped shape.
His success inspired rivalries among the Republican establishment and satire in popular culture. The show “South Park” spoofed the rightwing activist, who, in turn, took the lampooning in stride. Kirk remained a pugilist in public after Trump returned to power and continued his tours of college campuses. In private, his influence grew. Kirk personally vetted staff during the White House transition and served as an outside advisor to the president.
“Our hearts are shattered,” wrote White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller. “America has lost one of its greatest champions. A loving family has lost the most extraordinary husband and father. All of us must now dedicate ourselves to defeating the evil that stole Charlie from this world.”
September 11, 2025
Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Marks a Turning Point in America
As the nation grapples with the news that conservative activist and commentator Charlie Kirk was gunned down in cold blood while conducting one of his signature campus debates at Utah Valley University, it is of paramount importance for our political leaders both to recognize the political moment we are in and to try to defuse a potentially combustible situation. While conservatives will be tempted to demonize whoever the deluded shooter turns out to be, and liberals will undoubtedly call for more ineffective gun control legislation, neither reaction can hope to lead to anything productive.
Another tribute is in order to honor the memory of Kirk, who was one of the first to recognize that the radicalization of the left has been driven largely by economic disenfranchisement, a point that often goes unacknowledged by leading intellectual voices on the political right. There is a particular ideological bias that one notices in conservatives above a certain age (let’s say 45) who tend to dominate the positions of leadership in the right-leaning political organizations and think tanks now often referred to as “Conservative, Inc.” This bias is characterized by a certain disdain for the materialism and softness of young people who, having grown up in the wealthiest nation in the world with a prosperity unrivaled in human history, are simply unable to grasp the value of commitment, hard work, and the importance of moral virtue as the path to success in life. Spoiled, coddled, and ignorant of the struggles of previous generations, they feel like they are entitled to a prestigious position in the professional world and a valued social status without having to work to attain it. The problem is, according to this view, the collapse of a strong, coherent moral code and the older understanding that the sequence of success is one that demands self-denial and the deferment of gratification. These damn young people think the world owes them a living.
Kirk was uniquely clear-eyed in seeing this as not only a disastrous political analysis but also as a whitewash of the terrible policy choices that have caused so many Americans, particularly young people, to give up on the American Dream. While it is certainly true that the collapse of traditional Christian morality and the institutions that support it over the last 50 years has significantly eroded the stability of marriage, family, communities, and other mediating institutions that have historically served as bulwarks against tyranny, the Conservative Inc. caricature of Gen Z as rich, lazy, and entitled is hardly a complete—or fair—assessment of the political and social reality we face. The truth is that Gen Z, by a whole variety of measures, faces a much tougher socio-economic reality than any other American generation in memory. The decision to get married and form a family is not only negatively affected by the decline of the Christian ethic, but it is discouraged by an economy and a social structure that is no longer working for young people. The reality is that America, circa 2025, is not conducive to affordable family formation, and Gen Z is well aware of this. Even many of their parents are waking up to the fact that the American Dream of providing the next generation with greater prospects of professional achievement and material wealth than the last seems to be on life support.
The measures are all around us. College admission has become increasingly more competitive, and college itself is less affordable for the average American student. At the same time, the market value of a university degree and the guarantee of a lucrative career track based on that degree have steadily declined. The job market in the U.S. has changed drastically over the last four decades, with mass immigration pushing down wages and the outsourcing of production and labor abroad eliminating opportunities. Since 1981, the median age of homebuyers, the best measure of affordability and an ownership stake in the community, has gone from 31 to 56 today. The median age of first-time homebuyers has gone from 28 to 38 during the same time. Since the 1980s, stock market wealth has become increasingly concentrated among older Americans, and the percentage of young Americans with stock ownership has plummeted since the financial crisis of 2008. The recent public relations campaign of the World Economic Forum, selling the notion to young people in Western societies that “you will own nothing and be happy” because of all the efficiency and ease of a modern technological economy, seems to have been adopted wholesale by the American managerial elite responsible for creating the perverse incentives that have created and handed down a system characterized by degraded prospects of advancement and stability for people at the prime age of forming families.
We are seeing the rise of an entire generation of dispossessed Russian serfs in a rental economy full of technological toys and conveniences that distract them from the fact that they own nothing, and they live in a country where things are visibly degrading, in contrast to the hopeful, upwardly mobile economy of previous American generations. And this is where Conservative Inc. gets it drastically wrong. Our young people may be softer, more addicted to material comfort, and less able to do things for themselves than previous generations. It doesn’t mean they possess real wealth or any ownership stake in society whatsoever. It is largely a product of technological progress and an affluent society, with wealth increasingly concentrated at the top among the ownership elite who reap all the gains of economic growth. At the expense of the hollowed-out middle class.
Kirk argued that the more that the rising generation concludes that the current system is not working for them, the more prone they are to endorse radical, revolutionary, “tear down the system” political solutions that are purely destructive, including socialism and communism. Part of the appeal of Donald Trump and the MAGA movement is this same fundamental perception that the current system is not working and needs to be radically revamped. But unless we Make Family Formation Affordable Again, we are going to lose the political and policy argument, especially if we focus exclusively on moral decline as the root of the problem. It’s not what you would call a winning message to castigate the rising generation of voters as lazy, whiny, entitled brats who deserve their fate.
There can be no better tribute to Kirk—who literally gave his life attempting to reintegrate young people into the American system and to get Republicans to wake up to the dangers of radicalization if they failed to do so—than for President Trump and the GOP Congress to enact a Charlie Kirk Act for Affordable Family Formation. Republicans in Washington need to seize the moment so that some good can come of this horrific incident.
September 11, 2025