Payam Javan: Conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, has died at the age of 31 after being shot while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University. President Donald Trump confirmed the news on Truth Social, calling Kirk “The Great, and even Legendary” and praising his connection with America’s youth. Trump and other prominent political figures extended condolences to Kirk’s wife Erika and his family.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Vice President JD Vance described Kirk as a “genuinely good guy” and a “great father,” while Donald Trump Jr. said Kirk inspired a generation to speak up. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized Kirk’s dedication to future generations, and leaders from both parties — including Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi — strongly condemned the violence, calling political attacks “despicable” and “reprehensible.”

Kirk was known nationwide for his outspoken conservative activism, particularly on college campuses, where he regularly engaged students on issues such as gender ideology and free speech. His death comes just months after an assassination attempt on Trump himself in Pennsylvania, intensifying concerns over rising political violence in the United States. Calls for justice and a renewed rejection of political violence have since dominated reactions from leaders across the country.