Aubree Hudson, the chair of Turning Point USA’s off-campus chapter at Brigham Young University, made a passionate appeal to her generation during a gathering at the Utah Capitol, just weeks after the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA. Hudson, a 22-year-old business management junior, stood resolutely at the podium, reflecting on Kirk’s legacy and calling for a generation that is “the most patriotic, the most courageous, and the most prosperous in this country’s history.”
Kirk’s assassination on September 10 sent shockwaves across the nation, electrifying discussions around the anxieties of American conservatism and particularly those faced by Generation Z. He had become a powerful voice for young conservative voters, often balancing right-wing agendas with an ethos that condemned bigotry. Hudson shared the emotional weight of having posed for a picture with Kirk just moments before he was fatally shot, noting that his death has become a pivotal moment for her and her peers.
In the wake of Kirk’s death, the ideological landscape of American conservatism has seen significant changes, particularly in how younger conservatives relate to the party’s traditional values. Discussions now grapple with the increasing prominence of figures like Nick Fuentes, known for his controversial views that sharply divide opinion within conservative circles. While many young conservatives are moving toward isolationist and economically cautious positions, Hudson underscored the need for discourse that draws the line against extremist ideologies.
The generational divide in conservatism reflects broader societal changes. Surveys indicate a growing skepticism among young Republicans toward foreign alliances, along with increasing concerns about achieving the American Dream, particularly around housing affordability and economic stability. Young conservatives, often dubbed “Zoomers,” continue to scrutinize conventional wisdom on issues like immigration and foreign aid more than their older counterparts.
As the movement evolves, many young activists, including Hudson, are drawing from Kirk’s vision of conservatism to challenge the existing narratives. They stress the importance of unity, faith, and shared values while urging fellow conservatives to engage with the disillusioned segments of the youth population constructively. The legacy of Kirk, with his emphasis on family, faith, and responsibility, is seen by many as a beacon to navigate the complexities of modern conservatism.
The ongoing evolution within the Republican Party, driven by young voices wary of traditional party lines, hints at a potential recalibration of conservative principles. As this new generation rises, they express a desire to address pressing issues while transcending the ideological divides that have characterized contemporary politics, offering a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive and thoughtful conservative movement in the future.
Hudson’s message resonates with a combination of optimism and determination, framing her peers not as products of division, but as architects of a future grounded in shared values and compassionate discourse.