Charlie Kirk, conservative activist and Trump ally, shot dead at Utah rally

Charlie Kirk, a leading conservative activist and one of the most influential figures in Donald Trump’s political movement, was shot and killed on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during a public event at Utah Valley University in Orem. He was 31.

Kirk co-founded the youth-focused organization Turning Point USA at the age of 18, building it into a powerful conservative network that now operates across more than 850 college campuses. Known for his combative style, he often drew protests for events that challenged progressive policies and promoted right-wing causes. His appearances, including the Utah gathering where he was killed, frequently sparked controversy.

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Kirk bypassed university to pursue politics full-time

Raised in Illinois, Kirk bypassed university to pursue politics full-time. Under his leadership, Turning Point USA and its affiliated nonprofit, Turning Point Action, played a critical role in mobilizing young voters for Trump. He gained national prominence after appearing as one of the youngest speakers at the 2016 Republican National Convention and remained a steadfast Trump supporter, endorsing unverified claims about the 2020 election and opposing pandemic restrictions.

Kirk’s career was marked by polarizing views on gender, race, religion, and climate change. Despite sustained criticism, he built a substantial following through social media and his widely streamed podcast, The Charlie Kirk Show.

He lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife Erika, a former Miss Arizona USA, and their two children. His death underscores the sharp political divides in the United States.