LOGAN, Utah (RTW News) — Turning Point USA's college tour is making its return to Utah on Tuesday for its first event in the state since the tragic assassination of its founder, Charlie Kirk, earlier this month.
The event at Utah State University in Logan comes just two weeks after Kirk was shot on September 10 at Utah Valley University, prompting widespread outrage and calls for unity among conservatives. The assailant fired a single shot into the crowd while Kirk was speaking.
As a leading figure in the conservative movement and an ally of former President Donald Trump, Kirk's death has ignited a renewed commitment among conservatives to his vision of engaging young voters and promoting right-wing ideals. The organization he founded, Turning Point USA, has experienced a surge in interest with thousands of requests to establish new chapters across high schools and colleges nationally.
This upcoming event was planned prior to Kirk's assassination and will demonstrate how the organization is restructuring its efforts without their charismatic leader, who often drew large crowds to events.
The tour now includes some of the biggest names in conservative media, such as Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly. It will feature appearances by conservative podcast host Alex Clark and a panel that includes Sen. Mike Lee among others, fostering discussions on the future of conservative movements on college campuses.
Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, has expressed her firm resolve to continue the legacy of her husband as she leads Turning Point USA along with former aides and allies. 'We are not going anywhere. We have the blueprints and the marching orders,' she said in a recent podcast appearance, emphasizing her commitment to carry on Kirk's mission.
Tributes to Kirk have characterized recent events, focusing on prayer and call-and-response sessions he was known for, engaging audiences in discussions that reflect his vision for the future of conservatism in America.
