Charlie Kirk (October 14, 1993 – September 10, 2025) was an American conservative political activist, author, media personality, and founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), a nonprofit organization aimed at promoting conservative principles like free markets and limited government among young people on college campuses. Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs of Arlington Heights and Prospect Heights, Illinois, Kirk was the son of a mental health counselor mother and an architect father. He was raised Presbyterian, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and volunteered for Republican causes during high school, including Bill Brady's 2010 Illinois gubernatorial campaign.
Early Activism and Turning Point USA
Kirk co-founded TPUSA in 2012 at age 18 while a student at Harper College, initially with support from Tea Party activists and funding from Foster Friess. Under his leadership as executive director and later CEO, the group grew rapidly, establishing chapters on over 3,500 high school and college campuses and launching affiliates like Turning Point Action (focused on voter mobilization) and Turning Point Faith (targeting religious communities for conservative causes). He also served on the Council for National Policy, a conservative advocacy group.
Media Career and Public Persona
Kirk hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, a top-ranked conservative podcast and nationally syndicated radio program on the Salem Radio Network, broadcast weekdays from 12–3 PM ET. Known for his unapologetic style, he frequently appeared on platforms like Fox News and amassed a massive online following, including over 5.9 million followers on X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @charliekirk11. His content often addressed culture war issues, with a signature focus on "clarity in a sea of chaos."
Political Views and Influence
A staunch supporter of Donald Trump, Kirk advocated for Christian nationalism, opposed abortion and same-sex marriage, criticized Islam, defended gun rights (famously stating that gun deaths were "worth it" for Second Amendment freedoms), and opposed diversity initiatives. He promoted skepticism toward COVID-19 vaccines and claims of election fraud, while mobilizing youth turnout for Republican causes. Kirk's efforts were credited with influencing conservative youth activism, though he faced criticism for alleged ties to events like the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot (which TPUSA denied promoting violence).
Personal Life and Death
Kirk married Erika Wulff in 2021; they had a daughter nicknamed "GG." On September 10, 2025, just days before his 32nd birthday, Kirk was fatally shot in the neck by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson during a TPUSA debate event on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem, Utah, as part of his "American Comeback Tour." The sniper-style attack from approximately 142 yards away drew widespread condemnation of political violence from figures including President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and international leaders. Robinson was arrested on September 12 after a manhunt and has not cooperated with investigators, though his former roommate is assisting the FBI. U.S. flags were flown at half-staff until September 14 in Kirk's honor, and tributes poured in from conservatives, including NASCAR driver Christopher Bell dedicating a race win to him. Erika Kirk delivered an emotional address on September 13, vowing to preserve his legacy, and vigils were held nationwide.