One year ago, on September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk was assassinated while speaking before thousands of people at Utah Valley University. He was 31. The co-founder of Turning Point USA had become one of the country’s most prominent conservative activists, particularly known for taking his political arguments directly onto college campuses.
A year later, Kirk’s influence remains visible. Turning Point has continued under the leadership of his widow, Erika Kirk, while expanding its political organizing operation. Whatever one’s politics, Kirk’s murder was a stark reminder that political disagreement can never justify violence—and that a country built around vigorous debate must protect the right to engage in it peacefully. Charlie’s alleged assassin is awaiting trial.
Perhaps the most fitting hope on this anniversary is a simple one: that Americans can argue passionately, disagree profoundly and still recognize one another’s humanity–this is how Charlie lived. Charlie Kirk built his public career around debate. A year after his death, remembering that debate must be answered with more debate—not violence—would be a meaningful legacy.
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