Goebel Farms in Evansville, Indiana, has drawn significant criticism after unveiling a corn maze designed to honor conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated in September 2025.
The maze, titled 'Honoring the Life and Legacy of Charlie Kirk,' was revealed on Wednesday, just days before the one-year anniversary of Kirk's death. Aerial images show the maze carved in the likeness of Kirk's face, featuring the Turning Point USA logo and the initials 'RIP CK.'
Farm officials stated that the tribute was chosen to honor Kirk's commitment to free speech and his belief in resolving disagreements through conversation. "When conversation stops, division deepens and it becomes easier to view people as enemies rather than neighbors," the farm said in a Facebook statement.
However, the announcement led to widespread backlash. The farm's Google page was inundated with one-star reviews, and its social media accounts were flooded with negative comments. Many critics questioned the decision to honor a polarizing figure like Kirk, with some accusing the farm of seeking business suicide. Others expressed disappointment, noting they would no longer patronize the establishment after years of visits.
In response to the plummeting rating, which reportedly dropped to 1.6 stars, Goebel Farms appeared to remove its Google listing. The farm also closed comments on its social media pages, a move that critics pointed out as hypocritical given its stated commitment to free speech. Some users noted the irony of the farm boasting about open discussions and then disabling comments.
Goebel Farms defended its decision in a subsequent statement, acknowledging Kirk's polarizing nature but reiterating that the maze was not intended to endorse his views. "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. The farm emphasized its identity as a family business welcoming diverse beliefs and expressed hope for open dialogue without hatred or violence.
Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was a prominent figure in mobilizing young voters and supporting President Donald Trump's successful re-election campaign. He was 31 years old and a father of two when he was shot and killed during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University.
Tyler Robinson, 23, is accused of fatally shooting Kirk. He has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, arguing that Robinson endangered over 3,000 people by firing into a crowded area. Robinson's defense attorneys have countered that his actions were targeted and did not pose a risk to the wider crowd. A judge ruled that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with the aggravated murder charge, allowing prosecutors to pursue the death penalty. Robinson faces additional charges, including witness tampering. Legal experts suggest the case may involve extensive further litigation before a trial.