American political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10th ,during the first debate of his tour, at Utah Valley University. He was the founder of conservative student organization Turning Point USA, and was widely known for his outspoken defense of free speech and gun rights. 

The killing has left many worried about the rise of political violence in the United States. “Political violence is never ok, and I think that the fact that we’re using it on people that are expressing their opinions is worrying for the future of America,” said senior Anabel Weinstein. Her comments highlight a broader fear that attacks on public figures could erode civil discourse and normalize violence as a political tool.

Others echoed the same concern. “Political violence is never the answer,” said senior Grace Phan, “with violence only comes more violence.” She reminds us that violence doesn’t fix disagreements, it only makes them bigger.

For many students, the assassination represents a growing divide in the country. Weinstein added, “I think that we have never been less unified as a nation. When we’re resorting to gun violence to harm people that we don’t agree with I think that’s really concerning.” She shows how politics has grown so divided it sparks fear for safety and democracy.

Charlie Kirk had long defended the Second Amendment, noting the risks involved. He said, “It’s worth it to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment.” 

Authorities have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson after a family friend reported that he had confessed or implied involvement in the shooting. He is facing charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. As the investigation continues, the incident highlights ongoing national debates about political violence, gun rights, and increasing political division in the United States.