Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot during an event Wednesday at Utah Valley University in Orem, prompting an outpouring of concern from Utah officials and political leaders across the country.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox urged the public to pray for the 31-year-old father of two and his family, saying, "We need your prayers for Charlie." Authorities said a shooter was involved and that law enforcement and first responders had secured the campus; officials did not immediately identify a suspect and said an investigation was underway.
U.S. Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said his office was working to gather information and that "we are praying for his safety and the well-being of everyone impacted." Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, called the incident a reason to pray. House GOP Vice Chair Blake Moore, R-Utah, said his office was tracking the "harrowing events" and seeking further information as it became available.
Other members of Utah's congressional delegation offered similar statements. Rep. Burgess Owens described the shooting as "horrific" and said "we will not tolerate this in Utah." Rep. Mike Kennedy, whose district includes Orem and Utah Valley University, condemned the "senseless act of violence" and said he and his team were monitoring developments. Rep. Celeste Maloy asked for prayers and said the attack did "not reflect who we are in Utah."
The shooting also drew responses from candidates in two closely watched 2025 gubernatorial contests. Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, a Republican running for governor, asked the public to keep Kirk in their prayers, calling him "a husband, a young father, and someone who cares deeply about our country." Her Democratic opponent and former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger said she and her husband were praying for Kirk's family and that "political violence of any kind is unacceptable."
In New Jersey, Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli said there must be "zero tolerance for political violence and harsh punishment for the perpetrators of it," and urged prayers for Kirk and his young family. His Democratic opponent, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, called the shooting "appalling" and said on social media that she was praying for Kirk, his loved ones and the UVU community while urging that the perpetrator be brought to justice.
Turning Point USA, the conservative youth organization Kirk helped found, did not immediately provide details about his condition. Officials at Utah Valley University, where the event was held, confirmed there had been a shooting on campus and said they were cooperating with law enforcement.
The incident underscores heightened concerns about political violence as high-profile events involving public figures draw large crowds and intense media attention. Law enforcement agencies investigating the shooting said they would release more information as it became available and urged anyone with information to come forward.
Officials and candidates emphasized prayer and patience as authorities worked to determine the circumstances of the attack. Additional updates were expected as investigators and hospital sources provided further details.