UPDATE: Former President Donald Trump delivered a heartfelt address Wednesday evening following the shocking death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot during a campus event in Utah. The incident, which occurred just hours earlier, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, prompting urgent calls for reflection on political violence.
In a video message, Trump stated, “Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror.” He emphasized that this tragedy serves as a wake-up call about the dangerous rhetoric that has permeated political discourse, asserting, “This is a dark moment for America.”
Just prior to his address, Trump took to Truth Social, expressing his grief and calling for prayers for Kirk, whom he described as a “great guy from top to bottom.” He later shared, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead… He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me.” Trump extended condolences to Kirk’s wife, Erika, and their two young children.
In response to Kirk’s assassination, Trump has ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-mast until Sunday evening. He described Kirk as a patriot dedicated to promoting open debate across the nation, stating, “He fought for liberty, democracy, justice, and the American people.”
During his address, Trump condemned the “demonization” of political opponents, linking the climate of hostility to Kirk’s death and other violent acts. He pointed to his own attempted assassination last year and the ongoing attacks on ICE agents as evidence of escalating political violence. “We must confront the fact that violence and murder are the tragic consequences of demonizing those with whom you disagree,” he urged.
Trump pledged that his administration would pursue all those responsible for fostering such violence, including organizations that support it. “Radical left political violence has hurt too many innocent people and taken too many lives,” he stated. Trump called on Americans to recommit to values that Kirk embodied, such as free speech and citizenship.
The former president concluded by promising that Kirk’s message and legacy would endure, despite the attempt to silence him. “Charlie’s voice has become bigger and grander than ever before,” he declared, urging unity and remembrance in this time of heartbreak.
This developing story continues to unfold as the nation grapples with the implications of Kirk’s tragic death and the urgent need to address political divisiveness. Stay tuned for updates on this critical situation and the response from both political leaders and the community.
