Thousands of supporters gathered in Logan, Utah, on Tuesday night to pay tribute to Charlie Kirk as Turning Point USA’s college tour made its return to Utah. This was the first event since Kirk, the founder of the organization, was tragically killed on a Utah college campus earlier this month. The event took place at Utah State University, located two hours from Utah Valley University, where Kirk was shot and killed on September 10 while addressing a crowd.
The event opened with a speech by conservative podcast host Alex Clark, who made it clear that the gathering was not a funeral but a rallying point for Kirk’s vision. She urged attendees to continue the mission of promoting conservative values among young voters.
Earlier in the day, a building on the Logan campus was evacuated due to a “non-explosive” device that was detonated by the bomb squad. Authorities do not believe the device was connected to the Turning Point event, and the campus was deemed safe. Security at the venue was notably heightened with a significant law enforcement presence, metal detectors, and drones monitoring the area.
The assassination of Charlie Kirk, a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump and a pivotal figure in the Make America Great Again movement, has sparked a surge in conservative activism. Many have hailed Kirk as a martyr, leading to increased interest in establishing Turning Point USA chapters at high schools and colleges across the country. The event in Logan, which was planned before Kirk’s death, highlighted the organization’s determination to continue its mission without its charismatic founder. The tour features major conservative figures such as Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, and Glenn Beck.
The event also included a panel discussion featuring Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Rep. Andy Biggs, and former Rep. Jason Chaffetz. The panel focused on attributing blame for the political rhetoric that led to Kirk’s murder, with criticisms directed at the left for fostering a divisive atmosphere. Governor Cox faced boos from the crowd when he acknowledged violence on the far right but condemned the logic that equates speech with violence.
Attendees filled the school’s basketball stadium, donning red “MAGA” hats and holding posters reading “I am Charlie Kirk,” emphasizing a collective commitment to carry forward Kirk’s legacy. Many expressed a sense of healing in coming together to honor Kirk’s memory and reaffirm their shared values.
Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has committed to continuing her husband’s work with Turning Point USA. She now leads the organization and intends to follow Kirk’s plans, ensuring that his voice and vision remain influential in the movement.
The unity and resolve exhibited at the Logan event reflect the profound impact Charlie Kirk had on his followers, as well as the enduring determination to advance the conservative cause he championed. The tragic loss of a prominent leader has only strengthened the resolve of those he inspired, proving that Kirk’s mission will persevere.