AUSTIN (KXAN) — After Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was shot and subsequently died Wednesday at an event at a Utah college, Texas leaders are responding.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the assassination and passing of Charlie Kirk,” said Governor Abbott. “Charlie’s voice was a beacon for millions of young Americans searching for truth, courage, and conviction. This senseless act of violence has no place in America. Our prayers are with Charlie’s family and his loved ones, especially the two young children he leaves behind. Texas stands with them in mourning and in honoring Charlie’s enduring legacy.”
Former President George W. Bush
“Today, a young man was murdered in cold blood while expressing his political views. It happened on a college campus, where the open exchange of opposing ideas should be sacrosanct. Violence and vitriol must be purged from the public square. Members of other political parties are not our enemies; they are our fellow citizens. May God bless Charlie Kirk and his family, and may God guide America toward civility.”
Texas GOP
“We are heartbroken by the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk. Our prayers are with his wife, their two young children, and all who loved him. In this time of grief, we also pray for our nation, asking God’s guidance and comfort as we face this terrible loss.”
Texas Young Republican Federation
“We join the nation in mourning the loss of Charlie Kirk, and we pray for his wife and two young children. Charlie was a warrior and a pioneer of today’s youth conservative movement. His memory will live on in all of us and our mission as the Texas Young Republican Federation.”
Senator John Cornyn
“Sandy and I join the entire nation in lifting Charlie Kirk’s family up in prayer. May God comfort them during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton
“This act of pure evil is truly sickening. Charlie was an American patriot, a friend, and a faithful husband and father. Join me in praying for Charlie’s family and friends at this time. Words can not express how horrific this is to all of us.”
Senator Ted Cruz
“Heidi and I are devastated and heartbroken. Charlie Kirk’s murder was an act of unspeakable evil. Charlie was a close friend; we first met when he was just 18, and Turning Point was a nascent idea. Charlie was courageous, brilliant, compassionate, and powerfully honest. He was a strong Christian who boldly proclaimed the Gospel. Charlie loved our country deeply, and we will forever remember him and honor his legacy. Heidi and I are praying for his wife Erika and their two young children, and all of his family and loved ones. May God’s comfort and love be upon them. May Charlie rest in peace, and may he forever rest in the loving embrace of the Lord.”
Rep. Greg Casar
“Political violence tears at the fabric of our democracy. This is horrible and wrong. My thoughts are with Charlie Kirk and his family.”
Former Rep. Colin Allred
“I strongly condemn the shooting of Charlie Kirk. Political violence against anyone is outrageous and an attack on our democratic process. We must all unite against this.”
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick
“Charlie was a dear friend for many years, and I am heartbroken and in disbelief over his murder. Please keep his wife, his two young children, and all of his loved ones in your prayers. This photo of Charlie in Texas a few years ago is a reminder of his energy, passion, and friendship. The outright hate against conservatives in this country by many in the political opposition and in the mainstream media must stop now. May God bless Charlie Kirk and his family.”
Rep. Jasmine Crockett
“Today’s act of political violence in Utah against Charlie Kirk is absolutely disgusting and unacceptable. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we should all agree on this: political violence is wrong, and has no place in our democracy.”
House Speaker Dustin Burrows
“Just three days ago, Charlie reminded us in a tweet: “Jesus defeated death so you can live.” Today, we grieve the loss of a man who not only proclaimed that truth but lived it with courage, conviction, and unwavering faith. His passing is a painful reminder of the brokenness around us, yet also a powerful testament to the eternal hope we share in Christ. Charlie’s voice inspired millions to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom. Though his time here was cut short, his mission endures. My prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. May we honor his legacy by refusing to shrink back in the face of darkness and by carrying forward the truth he so fearlessly championed.”
Rep. Nathaniel Moran
“Devastated. For Charlie and His Family. For America.”
Former Texas Senator Don Huffines
“Charlie Kirk is a hero, a savant for liberty, and a true patriot who made the ultimate sacrifice for us all. We were blessed to walk this earth and fight the righteous fight alongside him. He did not just bring young people to conservatism, he brought them to God. Mary Catherine and I are heartbroken beyond words. This was an act of evil, an execution of America’s fearless defender of faith and virtue. My friend, we will NEVER FORGET you. We owe you so much. Charlie Kirk is a martyr for God and country.”
Rep. Wesley Hunt
“As a father of three, my heart aches for Charlie’s wife and children. I am reminded that life is fragile, sacred, and given to us by God alone.”
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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