09/10/2026
One year ago. His legacy will live on.
Political violence must end. Disagreement is a natural part of civic life, but resorting to threats, intimidation, or attacks crosses the line and undermines our democracy. In recent years, we have seen troubling acts of violence and even murder directed at conservative politicians, commentators, and everyday citizens who simply hold or express right-leaning views. Targeted assaults on figures such as Riley Gaines and Donald Trump, and other attacks across the country demonstrate that this is not isolated. Charlie Kirk was shot and killed. He would go to campuses and speak with students respectfully. This is a dangerous pattern.
This climate is visible in schools and universities, where conservative and libertarian students often feel they cannot speak freely or that their views may make them targets of hostility. Campuses should be places that encourage open debate and protect diverse perspectives, but too often those who hold right-leaning beliefs experience the opposite.
Violence and intimidation against people for their beliefs is unacceptable, regardless of ideology. It is critical to address this problem consistently, and to ensure that everyone, conservative, libertarian, or otherwise, can engage in public life and education without fear.
