SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — The death of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk has prompted an outpouring of grief from young local conservatives and calls for unity from politicians across party lines, as the country grapples with another act of gun violence.
Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was known for his college campus tours where he engaged in political debates with students. The conservative political organization focuses on motivating young people and has chapters at San Diego State University and UC San Diego.
Young conservatives expressed shock and disbelief at Kirk's death. One supporter said they were "stunned" and had "no words" to describe what happened.
"My friend told me, actually, it was like there's no way you're you're you're joking right now. So, and then I saw a video and it's just horrific," said Makenna Blackman, the San Diego Young Republicans' communication director.
In May, Kirk visited UC San Diego for one of his events. During that visit, he debated and took questions from students on topics including affirmative action, immigration, and abortion.
Those who knew and supported Kirk hope his legacy of campus dialogue will continue.
"I think the one thing we'd like to carry on with his legacy is the idea that we can continue to have this conversation, continue to have these conversations on college campuses, specifically," one supporter said.
Politicians from both parties condemned the violence. Governor Gavin Newsom called the attack on Kirk "disgusting, vile, and reprehensible." Rep. Juan Vargas said political violence "has no place in our country and it is never acceptable."
Rep. Mike Levin said, "We must lower the anger and hate poisoning our politics and resolve differences peacefully and with basic respect."
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
