Turning Point USA, under the leadership of Erika Kirk, is laying the groundwork to support a potential JD Vance presidential bid in 2028. This follows the late Charlie Kirk’s early advocacy for Vance and the close friendship between them. While acknowledging Vance’s position as a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, Kirk emphasized the organization’s focus on the upcoming midterm elections. Ultimately, the organization plans to support Vance’s run for presidency.
Read More
Former Arizona state legislator Austin Smith pleaded guilty to charges related to forging over 100 signatures on his reelection petitions. Smith admitted to signing a deceased person’s name and attempting to deceive the Secretary of State’s Office by filing petitions with forged signatures. The plea agreement allows Smith to potentially avoid a felony conviction, but he will face probation, a fine, and a five-year ban from public office, pending the sentencing judge’s decision. Despite initially denying the accusations, Smith resigned from his position at Turning Point Action around the time of the allegations, but may have been rehired.
Read More
At a Turning Point USA event on October 29th, Vice President JD Vance was introduced by Erika Kirk, widow of the organization’s previous leader, Charlie Kirk. The pair shared an emotional embrace that quickly circulated on social media, sparking debate over their interaction. During the event, Vance also addressed his interfaith marriage, sharing his hopes that his wife would eventually embrace his Christian faith.
Read More
At a Turning Point USA event at the University of Mississippi, J.D. Vance was questioned by a supporter about potential abuses of power, specifically regarding the deployment of the National Guard. The fan expressed concern over how such actions could be used by a future “tyrant” against right-wing protests. Vance responded by stating it’s essential not to refrain from actions due to fear of the left’s potential misuse, as he believes the left will act regardless. He referenced the actions of a hypothetical Joe Biden administration.
Read More
During a NewsNation town hall, Turning Point USA spokesperson Andrew Kolvet was repeatedly pressed to condemn leaked messages from a Young Republican National Federation group chat that contained antisemitic and racist language, including praise for Hitler. Despite being given multiple opportunities, Kolvet avoided directly denouncing the messages. The leaked correspondence, which included thousands of messages, led to calls for resignations from within the Republican party and condemnation from the Young Republican National Federation itself. The messages were acquired from dozens of leaders within the organization across the country.
Read More
Oklahoma’s state superintendent announced plans to establish Turning Point USA chapters in every high school, citing a need to counter “radical leftist teachers unions.” Following a surge in requests after the death of Charlie Kirk, the state will assist students in starting “Club America” chapters, providing resources and support. The superintendent also warned schools against refusing to host the clubs, threatening accreditation. Critics have pointed to the superintendent’s history of promoting right-wing politics and religious agendas in schools.
Read More
Turning Point USA (TPUSA) attributed a “miracle” to the late Charlie Kirk’s death, claiming a bullet didn’t fully penetrate his body. This explanation, delivered by a TPUSA spokesperson, implied Kirk’s exceptional health prevented an exit wound. Alex Jones, however, vehemently rejected this narrative. Jones criticized the claims, accusing TPUSA of peddling a nonsensical story and comparing it to the Easter Bunny.
Read More
In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, a subtle debate has emerged about how to remember his life, recognizing his commitment to free discourse while also acknowledging his role in promoting extremism. Some emphasize his engagement in democratic deliberation, while others highlight the damage he caused to the democratic process. The author argues that both perspectives are valid, emphasizing the need to condemn the killing without sanitizing Kirk’s actions or allowing allies to exploit his death to further degrade politics. The article stresses the importance of rejecting justification of violence and avoiding both a complete condemnation of Kirk and a whitewashing of his actions.
Read More
Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah resident, has been identified by law enforcement as the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Surveillance footage and images released by authorities helped identify Robinson, and he was turned in by a family member. Kirk, a co-founder of Turning Point USA, was killed during an event hosted by the school’s Turning Point USA chapter. Authorities recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle and were analyzing evidence from the scene.
Read More
On Wednesday, conservative activist Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University. Former President Donald Trump mourned Kirk’s death on social media. Law enforcement confirmed the shooting, and the suspected shooter remains at large. The event was controversial, having faced opposition and a petition against Kirk’s appearance. This tragic event comes amid a rise in political violence across the nation.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker