Leaders and legislators across the political spectrum responded with horror to the killing of Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old right-wing activist, commentator and ally by US President Donald Trump, who was shot Wednesday when he spoke at an outdoor event at an Utah University.
Here are some reactions to his killing:
US President Donald Trump
“The great and even legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the heart of youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by everyone, especially me, and now he is no longer with us. Melania and my sympathy go out to his beautiful wife Erika and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Vice President JD Vance
“Eternal rest gives him, Lord.”
Joe Biden, former US President, Democrat
“There is no place in our country for this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I pray for Charlie Kirk’s family and dear.”
Barack Obama, former US President, Democrat
“We do not yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of contemptible violence has no place in our democracy.”
US agricultural secretary Brooke Rollins
“The Death of My Sweetest Friend and Fellow Warrior for Christ and For America, Charlie Kirk, is a profound tragedy … This tragedy centers upon him and his beloved family, but make no mistake: this is a tragedy for america too, no matter what your politics. Trading away away the political Life’s Work – For the False Politics of Violence and Murder Is Trading Away America Iself. “
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
“Charlie Kirk was murdered to have speaking truth and defending freedom. A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought for the lies and stood high for Jewish Christian civilization. I spoke to him only two weeks ago and invited him to Israel. Unfortunately, that visit will not take place. We lost a tireless man.
British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper
“Deeply shocked by the killing of Charlie Kirk in Utah. Political violence has no place in our community. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Republican
“Charlie’s voice was a lighthouse for millions of young Americans searching for truth, courage and conviction. This meaningless act of violence has no place in America.”
Donald Trump, Jr
“I love you, brother. You gave so many people the courage to speak up and we’ll never be taved.”
Republican National Committee President Joe Gruters
“Charlie Kirk was a father, man and dedicated patriot who spent his life defending conservative values and inspiring young Americans. Our hearts break for his wife, children, dear and countless supporters across the country.
US Senator Mike Lee, Republican from Utah
“This murder was an act of violence, an attack on masters of freedom as Charlie, the students who gathered for civilian debate, and all Americans who peacefully strive to save our nation. The terrorists do not win. Charlie Will.”
