On Wednesday, authorities confirmed that conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed by a single shot in an apparent targeted attack during an outdoor event Wednesday at Utah Valley University. Kirk co-founded the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA and was a close ally of President Donald Trump.
A number of Southwest Michigan elected officials have issued statements in response to the attack. In accordance with an order issued by President Donald Trump, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags at all government buildings to be lowered to half-staff to honor and remember Kirk.
U.S. Representative Tim Walberg — “Today we lost a true champion of free speech. Charlie Kirk’s commitment to engaging in honest and productive debate was courageous and noble, especially since today’s ‘open dialogue’ too often means censorship. Charlie inspired thousands of students to speak their minds, ask difficult questions, and engage in meaningful conversations—regardless of political affiliation. His commitment to defending the First Amendment helped create spaces where students feel empowered to express their beliefs without fear. In doing so, he reminded an entire generation of the importance of intellectual diversity and civil discourse. Thanks to his work more students are encouraged to think freely, speak boldly, and stand up for their convictions.”
U.S. Representative Bill Huizenga — “My heart and prayers goes out to the family and friends of Charlie Kirk. While we don’t know who, we have a good idea why, and it is disgusting. The growing violence against conservative voices seems to be tolerated by some but should be rejected by all. The targeted assassination of Charlie Kirk for engaging in free speech and sharing his political beliefs runs counter to everything America stands for. It is my hope law enforcement quickly discovers who committed this heinous act and prosecutes them to the fullest extent of the law.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer — “I am thinking of Charlie Kirk, his family, and the community at UVU after the horrific shooting that took place earlier today. Political violence of any form is unacceptable and must be condemned. Our country is founded on the freedom to stand up and speak your mind without fear of being hurt or killed. We must tone down the hateful and divisive rhetoric and center our common humanity. We settle our differences at the ballot box, not through violence. We all have a role to play in coming together and standing up against any and all forms of hatred and violence.”
State Senator Aric Nesbitt — “The events that transpired today in Utah can only be described as horrific. It was an act of terrorism, plain and simple. The assassination of Charlie Kirk at the campus of Utah Valley University is yet another violent assault on our American way of life. Charlie always emphasized that the minute we stop having discourse, the second we stop sharing ideas with each other, despite our differences, is when we will devolve into violence. That’s why he went to college campuses and had discussions with the future of our nation. He wanted to show that ideas should be shared and debated, and that no one should be silenced simply because of what they believed. People tried to shame Charlie. They tried to kick him off campuses so he couldn’t speak. And, finally, they tried to silence him permanently. Unfortunately, they did. I, as well as most Americans, am overwhelmed with emotions after what we witnessed today. Sadness. Disgust. Anger. As a father to young children, my heart is shattered for his wife and babies. I call everyone to join in prayer for the well-being of his family, who were robbed of this wonderful man. May God give them the love and strength to make it through this.”
Berrien County Sheriff Chuck Heit — “Charlie Kirk was a 31 year old husband and father. He was a huge influence on the youth in this country and he was willing to debate based on facts with a great attitude and spirit!! He was a great man who loved his family and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!! This political assassination is absolutely unacceptable and is not who we are as Americans!! May God bless his family and the United States of America.”
Michigan Republican Party Chairman Jim Runestad — “Kathy and I are devastated to hear the news of Charlie Kirk’s passing. For over a decade, Charlie energized the youth of America at college campuses across the country, challenging students to dream big about their future, and inspiring generations of future leaders, legislators, and constitutional conservatives. His wisdom and dedication to upholding our constitutional rights will be dearly missed. The wave of political violence gripping our nation is un-American, and unpatriotic. No American should fear for their life because of their faith or their political views. I hope everyone in Michigan will join me in continuing to pray for Charlie’s family and the profound impact he had on our nation. May he rest in peace.”