'Will find each and every-one': Trump after Charlie Kirk assassinated
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has mourned the assassination of his close ally and conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk was shot dead during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The shooter is still unidentified, with authorities confirming no one has been arrested in connection with the incident yet. His wife and children were present when he was shot.
Political rhetoric
Trump holds 'radical left' responsible for Kirk's assassination
In the wake of Kirk's death, Trump has blamed "radical left" rhetoric for the assassination. He called Kirk a "martyr for truth" and a "great American patriot." The president said such rhetoric is directly responsible for terrorism in America and must stop immediately. He promised to hold accountable all those who contributed to this violence, including organizations that support it and those who target law enforcement officials.
Remarks
'Radical left political violence has hurt too many innocent people'
"From the attack on my life in Butler, Pennsylvania, last year,...to the attacks on ICE agents, to the vicious murder of a healthcare executive in the streets of New York, to the shooting of House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and three others. Radical left political violence has hurt too many innocent people and taken too many lives," he said. "My administration will find each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity and to other political violence."
National tribute
Trump orders half-mast flag display in honor of Kirk
In a show of respect for Kirk, Trump has ordered all American flags to be flown at half-mast until Sunday evening. He described Kirk as a "truly Great American Patriot" and extended his condolences to Kirk's wife and family. The event where Kirk was killed was part of "The American Comeback Tour," aimed at rallying young voters for Trump's campaign. It was the first of at least 15 scheduled events at universities around the country.
Legacy impact
Kirk's assassination and the issue of political violence
Kirk was a co-founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization that aimed to mobilize young people on college campuses. His group evolved to become the country's largest conservative youth movement, with him often described as the face of the "Make America Great Again" movement. His social media and eponymous daily podcast often featured clips of him debating with students on topics such as transgender identity, climate change, Christianity, and family values.