Charlie Kirk, the co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. His death was later announced by President Donald Trump on Truth Social.
Prior to Kirk’s death, several political leaders in Southern California and California sent out statements regarding the shooting.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also reacted to the shooting, writing that she was “absolutely disgusted” by the shooting.
“Political violence in all forms is unacceptable and reprehensible,” she wrote. “We must all reject it."
Rep. Judy Chu called the shooting “unacceptable,” adding that she condemned it.
“No one deserves to be the target of gun violence, ever,” she said.
Senator Adam Schiff called the shooting “just awful.”
“The increasing degree of political violence in this country is a threat to everyone. And it must end,” he said.
Senator Alex Padilla wrote that “America was founded on the freedom to disagree.”
“The shooting of Charlie Kirk is reprehensible and sickening. I am praying for him and his family during this time,” he continued.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, who interviewed Kirk on his podcast, wrote on X, “The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.”
After Kirk's death was announced, Newsom released another statement, calling his death "sick and reprehensible."
"I knew Charlie, and I admired his passion and commitment to debate. His senseless murder is a reminder of how important it is for all of us, across the political spectrum, to foster genuine discourse on issues that deeply affect us all without resorting to political violence," he continued.
State Sen. Tony Strickland wrote on X that he was "devastated and heartbroken by the assassination."
"This is a horrific act of violence against a man who devoted his life to youth engagement and encouraging public dialogue," he wrote. "Carla and I are praying for Charlie’s family, friends, and all mourning his loss."
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