SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Following the death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, Representative Mike Levin (CA-49) condemned political violence and called on Americans to come together on Thursday.
Levin, who represents much of North County, is a Democrat and shared that he and Kirk “disagreed on almost everything politically.” However, in a video shared in a news release, the representative called for voters to reject violence against those they disagree with.
“Our founders built this nation so we could argue passionately about our future and still come together as one people,” Levin said. “Debate is healthy. Disagreement is essential. But violence is a betrayal of everything America stands for.”
Kirk was killed yesterday while at a speaking event at Utah Valley University. There is currently no suspect in custody and authorities are asking for the public’s help.
Levin believes political violence is on the rise and that when people are afraid to speak about their opinions, everyone loses.
“Over the past few years, we’ve seen threats and attacks aimed at elected officials, judges, school board members, journalists, and activists of all stripes,” Levin said. “It’s dangerous and it’s unsustainable. It creates fear, silences voices, and weakens the democracy that generations fought to preserve.”
Across the aisle, several elected officials are condemning Kirk’s assassination, such as Governor Gavin Newsom and San Diego Representative Sara Jacobs. Levin shared that while trust in the political system is low, he still believes Democrats and Republicans can work together.
“We can fiercely debate ideas without dehumanizing each other,” Levin said. “If we remember that, if we choose compassion over hatred, if we choose community over chaos, I think America’s promise will remain stronger than anger and division. And I think together, we can build a future that is actually worthy of our children.”
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