Conservative leaders mourn the loss of Charlie Kirk

September 10, 2025 – Conservative political philosopher, Christian apologist, and pundit Charlie Kirk – the founder of Turning Point USA – was gunned down while at an event in Utah Valley State University. Conservative leaders and Republican politicians were quick to express their condolences.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) said, "All of us in Alabama are wrapping the Kirk family in prayer during this unimaginable time of loss. Charlie was a husband, father and patriot. I hope and pray his mission to have good dialogue continues."

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama) said, "Charlie Kirk was a true patriot who loved this country. I enjoyed going on his podcast, serving on boards together, and working side by side to advance the conservative movement. My heart breaks for Erika, his two kids, and the Kirk family. Their world – and ours – will never be the same. Please join me in praying for them."

Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said, "Heartbroken to hear of Charlie Kirk's passing and praying for his young family at this time."

Alabama Attorney General and candidate for Senate Steve Marshall (R) released a statement:

"I am deeply saddened by the shocking loss of Charlie Kirk," said Marshall. "He was a passionate leader who inspired countless young conservatives. A wife has lost her husband and two children have lost their father. May he rest in peace."

"Charlie dedicated his life to engaging young Americans in the civic process, building a movement that gave voice to a new generation of conservatives," continued Marshall. "Acts of political violence have no place in our nation. The strength of our democracy is measured by our commitment to resolve differences without hatred or harm."

"I ask you to join me in prayer for his wife Erika, their children and all who loved him, as well as for healing and unity in our nation," said Marshall.

First Lady Melania Trump said on X, "harlie's children will be raised with stories instead of memories, photographs instead of laughter, and silence where their father's voice should have echoed. Charlie Kirk's life should serve as a symbolic reminder that compassionate awareness elevates family, love, and country."

HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr – whose own father was slain by an assassin's bullet - said, "Once again, a bullet has silenced the most eloquent truth teller of an era. My dear friend Charlie Kirk was our country's relentless and courageous crusader for free speech. We pray for Erika and the children. Charlie is already in paradise with the angels. We ask his prayers for our country."

·Vivek Ramaswamy said, "Charlie Kirk was more committed to peaceful, open dialogue with those who disagreed with him than anyone I know. God blessed him with immense gifts, and he used them boldly and without fear. He knew the risks he was taking, but he did it anyway because he loved his kids & felt a responsibility to the nation they would inhabit. I traveled the entire country with him last year, we spent 1x1 time together in Ohio two weeks ago, spoke to him again 2 days ago. He's long warned of the rise of political violence & the growing culture of assassination, when few were willing to listen, with a clarity of vision unlike anyone I've known. Completely and utterly devastated."

Former Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan said, "In 2018, I invited Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens to be the guest speakers at the ALGOP Summer Dinner in Tuscaloosa. They accepted the invitation and wowed the sold out dinner. He told the guests to run for school boards and get plugged in our education system. I watched them earlier rising to be voices of not only conservative policy but of openness, free speech and had no fear of backing down in truth while encouraging young people to participate in conversations. Charlie was a role model on how to agree to disagree, something much needed today. He may have disagreed with you but he loved you."

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Alabama) said, "Please join Wesley and me in praying for Charlie Kirk's family and for our nation as they mourn this unbelievable tragedy. My heart breaks for his loved ones-especially his wife and two children he leaves behind. Charlie was a leading voice in the conservative movement who brought countless young Americans into the fold of American politics. He was fearless, and started important conversations in our discourse not only throughout the country, but throughout the world. Most importantly, he was a loving father and husband. His legacy and impact will live on for generations. Political violence has reached new heights and become a true sickness in our nation. Please pray for our country."

Expressed condolences: "All of us in Alabama are wrapping the Kirk family in prayer."

Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-AL04) said, "I am deeply saddened to hear of Charlie Kirk's passing. Charlie was a devoted Christian and father. Because of his faith, I know he is now at peace with the Lord. Please continue to pray for Charlie's family, his young children, and all of his loved ones."

Congressman and Senate candidate Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said, "Heather and I are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Charlie Kirk. Charlie's unwavering voice for the values that should unite us - faith, family, and freedom, inspired countless Americans to stand strong in the fight for our nation's future. Please join us in lifting up Charlie's family, friends, and all those who knew him in prayer during this difficult time."

Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl called Kirk's death "more than an attack on one man-it is an attack on the very freedoms that define our nation." Wahl urged unity against political violence and reaffirmed the importance of free speech and civil discourse.

President Donald J. Trump (R) said, "Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror. He's a martyr for truth and freedom, and there's never been anyone who was so respected by youth."

Trump praised Kirk's devotion to open debate, liberty, and faith, and offered prayers for his wife Erika and their two children. He also condemned what he called the "demonization" of political opponents, blaming rhetoric from the "radical left" for contributing to the violence. He ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-mast until Sunda

Kirk's wife – Erica – and his two children were with him in Utah when he was assassinated. He was 31.

To ask a question or comment email brandonmreporter@gmail.com