PLATTSBURGH — North Country Republicans and Democrats mourned the loss of Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk after he was shot and killed at a Utah college event, Wednesday.
“Hearts across America are heavy, broken, and outraged after today’s heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk,” House Republican Leadership Chairwoman and NY-21 Rep. Elise Stefanik said. “We mourn the irreplaceable loss of Charlie as a vibrant, iconic, conservative titan. Our country knows Charlie as a loving father of two precious children and a dedicated husband with a huge heart and deep love for America. This passionate patriot inspired a generation of young Americans as he fearlessly and boldly promoted free speech, religious liberty, and morality.”
Kirk was at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah for a campus event as part of his company Turning Point USA’s “The American Comeback Tour.”
At these campus events, Kirk, known for his right-wing views and devout Christian faith, would debate students on a variety of societal and political issues. While he was answering a question from a student Wednesday, Kirk was shot in the neck in front of hundreds of students in attendance.
President Donald Trump announced a couple hours after the shooting Wednesday that Kirk had died. He was 31 years old and left behind a wife and two children.
As of press time, the FBI said that a suspect was still at large.
After news of his death went public, the City of Plattsburgh Republican Committee shared a statement Wednesday expressing “deep sorrow” after hearing the news of Kirk’s passing.
“Our Republic was founded on basic principles, the first of which is freedom of speech. Charlie was a champion of political dialogue, respectfully debating across campuses across the nation, encouraging youth to engage in political conversation,” Chairperson David J Souliere IV said. “Such a senseless act. A father, a husband, a champion of free speech, gone but never forgotten. We are all with Charlie Kirk, and his family. God bless and Godspeed.”
Similarly, Clinton County Democratic Chairman Jay S. Jacobs said “The attack today on Charlie Kirk was an attack on every value that Americans hold dear.”
“America is all about everyone’s right to say things others may disagree with and even not like to hear. This assassination of someone whose views I disagree with is about as un-American an act as can be perpetrated,” Jacobs said in a statement. “All Americans should pray for Charlie Kirk’s family as we all condemn this egregious act and any violence in our political process.”
“This country was not founded to silence differing opinions or open debate,” Clinton County Republican Chairwoman Jerika Manning said. “My prayer is that this generation can move beyond hate and violence — and instead come together at the table for honest discussion, understanding, and respect.”
State Sen. Dan Stec (R-C, Queensbury) called Kirk’s death a “senseless and despicable tragedy.”
“While the conservative movement has lost a passionate advocate for free speech, religious liberty and common sense government, that pales in comparison to the loss of a spouse and parent,” Stec said. “There is no place for political violence in our society. There must be a free, open exchange of ideas and disagreements without the threat of violence.”
Assemblyman Matt Simpson, who represents the 114th district as a Republican, said Kirk was a “passionate voice for our values and a tireless advocate for young Americans.”
“His energy and dedication inspired many, and his impact will not be forgotten,” Simpson said. “My prayers are with his wife, Erika and their young children during this heartbreaking time. No words can ease their loss, but we stand with them and lift them up in our thoughts. Political violence, no matter your political beliefs, is unacceptable and must be condemned.”
The two candidates in this year’s 115th assembly district special election also condemned the shooting.
“I send my prayers to Charlie Kirk’s family; I am unabashed in this sentiment (that) political violence is abhorrent and unacceptable,” Michael Cashman, a Democrat, said. “We have seen acts of violence against people across the political spectrum, and each one is an attack on the values that hold our democracy together. We must reject hate in all its forms and recommit ourselves to dialogue and the peaceful resolution of our differences. May God provide comfort, and let us answer his call for peace.”
Republican candidate Brent Davison said “During this difficult and unsettling time, it is hard to articulate one’s thoughts.”
“Charlie was a man dedicated to fostering open dialogue and promoting critical thinking. His mission was to encourage individuals to form their own opinions and make informed decisions. Charlie’s TP USA movement was remarkably successful, especially among young people,” Davison said.
“Sadly, his life was cut short due to his courageous stance. We must take a step back and reflect on our collective values, striving to reclaim our humanity as a society. This rampant insanity must cease. Charlie’s unwavering commitment to standing up for what is right, even in the face of evil, serves as a powerful example for us to follow. RIP brother.”