Republicans Pay Tribute to Charlie Kirk One Year After His Killing

Chants of “Charlie, Charlie” erupted at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas on Thursday as party members paid tribute to Charlie Kirk, the Turning Point USA founder who was assassinated a year ago.

The usually boisterous crowd inside the basketball arena fell silent as a five-minute memorial video commemorating Kirk played, marking a sombre pause in an otherwise energetic convention focused on Republican candidates and the upcoming midterm elections.

“One year later, there is something wonderfully defiant about the fact that his voice has not grown quieter,” said Lucas Miles, a pastor and Turning Point vice president. He said the organisation’s membership and social media following had “multiplied” since Kirk’s death.

Kirk was a prominent figure in the American conservative movement. He built a nationwide network of college chapters, hosted a popular podcast and developed a strong following among young Christian conservatives. He also became an influential powerbroker within President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement, maintaining ties with multiple factions on the political right.

Kirk was shot dead on September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University.

Tyler Robinson, 23, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder charges in connection with Kirk’s death. He could face the death penalty if convicted. Robinson surrendered to authorities the day after the shooting.

Charlie Kirk’s Movement Faces Internal Tensions

No single figure has fully stepped into Kirk’s role since his death. The movement he built has also faced internal divisions, particularly over the circumstances surrounding his killing.

A vocal group led by prominent podcaster Candice Owens has questioned the official account from Utah prosecutors, who allege that Robinson acted alone. Conspiracy theories surrounding the case have also spread widely online.

Miles appeared to address the divisions during his remarks at the convention.

“Turning Point is not dead,” he said. “The organization Charlie founded is still growing. A new generation is stepping forward.”

Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has since been appointed CEO of Turning Point and has assumed some of his public-speaking responsibilities. The organisation has also brought in other conservative commentators to continue the public debates and events that Kirk frequently hosted.

Turning Point also planned a memorial event Thursday evening in Orem, Utah, returning to the Utah Valley University campus where Kirk was killed.

“We have felt the weight of his absence in ways that never seem to get easier,” Turning Point said in a statement marking the first anniversary of his death.