Leaders react

Kirk was widely recognized for fostering debate among young Americans and never shied away from controversy, with numerous viral clips of his confrontations with liberal college students.

Political leaders across the spectrum reacted to the news. Republican Governor Spencer Cox said:

“This is a dark day for our state, it’s a tragic day for our nation.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom, who once hosted Kirk on his podcast, added:

“The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.”

In tribute to Kirk, President Trump announced that all American flags across the country will be flown at half-mast until Sunday evening.