Officials React to Charlie Kirk Shooting
There has been strong reaction from all levels to the Wednesday fatal shooting of conservative activist, commentator, co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA Charlie Kirk. Speaking on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem, Utah, Kirk shot in the neck while speaking as part of the opening event of his “American Comeback Tour,” where he hosted a “Prove Me Wrong” table.
The fatal shot was reportedly fired from a rooftop or building about 200 yards away. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Kirk died later that day from his injuries.
Authorities described the incident as a targeted assassination. The campus was immediately placed on lockdown, and classes were canceled following the attack.
President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social, calling him “Great, and even Legendary,” and expressed deep personal admiration.
Trump ordered flags to half staff until Sunday evening at 6 p.m. in respect to Charlie Kirk.
Vice President J.D. Vance, Senator Mike Lee, House Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other political leaders voiced outrage, offered prayers, and urged unity against political violence.
The shooting reignited national discourse on the escalation of political violence in the U.S., particularly at college campuses.
Here are some of the statements issued from state and local leaders on news of the shooting:
Gov. Tate Reeves
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann
U.S. Senator Roger Wicker
U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith
U.S. Rep. Trent Kelly
Southaven Mayor Darren Musselwhite (on Facebook)
Statement from the Mississippi Republican Party
FBI Director Kash Patel later Wednesday announced a suspect was in custody in connection of what Utah Gov. Spencer Cox termed a “political assassination.” As of Wednesday evening, that suspect had not been identified.
