An Indiana farm has ignited controversy with its corn maze tribute to the late Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist. Goebel Farms in Evansville chose to honor Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, citing his commitment to free speech.
Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event. The farm announced the theme for its annual corn maze, which subsequently led to significant community backlash. The farm reported receiving numerous negative Google reviews following the announcement. The farm's Google listing appears to have been removed, with the business previously marked as "permanently closed."
In a statement, Goebel Farms acknowledged that Kirk was a polarizing figure and that many people disagreed with his views and methods. The farm emphasized that its intention was not to endorse Kirk's beliefs but to promote civil discourse. "In a country founded on the principles of free speech, no person should lose his or her life for participating in political discussion," the statement read. "People are free to challenge ideas, criticize them and reject them — but violence must never become the response to speech."
The farm described itself as a family business, not a political organization. Its stated hope is for Americans to "speak openly, disagree honestly and challenge one another’s ideas without hatred or violence—and that our community can continue treating its members with dignity and respect."
Separately, Tyler Robinson, 23, is facing trial for the alleged assassination of Kirk, who was 31. A Utah judge ruled that prosecutors presented sufficient evidence to proceed with all seven charges against Robinson, including aggravated murder and felony discharge of a firearm. The trial is set to move forward.