Cara Brown McCormick
The most prominent young conservative activist in America, Charlie Kirk, was shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Kirk, founder of the conservative student organization Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was debating students when the shooting occurred.
“Bystanders report seeing Kirk shot near his neck during a Q&A with students,” the Deseret News reported.
https://www.foxnews.com/video/6379054699112
Kirk is one of the most influential voices on the American right, with 5.2 million followers on X and 7.3 million on TikTok. His reach has made him a central figure in conservative media and a frequent presence on college campuses, where he stages debates and public forums.
News of the attack prompted an outpouring of reaction from Washington and beyond.
President Trump wrote on Truth Social: “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”
Vice President JD Vance also urged Americans to pray for Kirk.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox said he had been briefed and pledged that the attacker would “be held fully accountable.” He added on X: “Violence has no place in our public life. Americans of every political persuasion must unite in condemning this act.”
Statements of support came quickly from across the political spectrum.
- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth: “Prayers for Charlie Kirk. An incredible Christian, American, and human being. May the healing hand of Jesus Christ be upon him.”
- Attorney General Pamela Bondi: “FBI and ATF agents are on the way. PRAY FOR CHARLIE.”
- House Speaker Mike Johnson: “Please join us in praying for our good friend, Charlie Kirk.”
- California Governor Gavin Newsom: “The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.”
- Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: “We love you Charlie Kirk. Praying for you.”
There was reported shock inside the White House as word of the shooting reached senior officials, according to the BBC’s Bernd Debusmann Jr.
FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X: “Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly, and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”
Authorities have not released further details about Kirk’s condition. An initial suspect was in custody, according to Utah Valley University., but the latest reports indicate that the suspect was released and the shooter has not been caught.
Update 4:50 PM EDT: Fox News reports Charlie Kirk has died at the age of 31.