West Texas leaders react to the death of Charlie Kirk
Special for the Avalanche-Journal
Trump, Vance, Biden react to death of Charlie Kirk
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed at a Utah Valley university event. Donald Trump and Joe Biden reacted to the news.
West Texas area leaders and college campus organizers called for prayer and mourning Wednesday in response to the killing of conservative activist and Turning point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk during a rally earlier in the day at a Utah university.
Kirk died after being shot in the neck during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday, according to reporting from USA TODAY.
The Turning Point USA Chapter at Texas Tech shared a message on social media inviting the community to a prayer vigil at 8 p.m. Wednesday at the free speech area near the campus’ Student Union Building.
“We are deeply saddened by the events that have transpired at Utah Valley University today,” the message continues. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Charlie Kirk, his family, and all those affected by this tragedy.”
Campus political advocacy group Turning Point USA has chapters at the Texas Tech campus in Lubbock and West Texas A&M in Canyon,among others around the state and nation.
Lubbock County GOP chairman David Bruegel released a statement saying he was deeply saddened at the loss of Kirk.
“His work communicating conservative principles had a nationwide, generational impact for the good of our nation,” Bruegel’s statement continued. My prayers and condolences are with his wife and children during this incredible time of loss.
“One of the essential rights acknowledged in our Constitution is the freedom of speech. We must continue to defend this right and condemn violence in political discourse so that others can continue to follow Charlie’s example and speak their convictions.”
Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer shared a brief statement on social media, stating: “Let’s all hope and pray, whatever our politics, that this kind of violence dose not ever fall upon our city.”
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, shared a post on the social media site X, recalling that “Just three days ago, Charlie reminded us in a tweet: ‘Jesus defeated death so you can live.’ Today, we grieve the loss of a man who not only proclaimed that truth but lived it with courage, conviction, and unwavering faith. His passing is a painful reminder of the brokenness around us,yet also a powerful testament to the eternal hope we share in Christ. Charlie’s voice inspired millions to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom.Though his time here was cut short, his mission endures. my prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. May we honor his legacy by refusing to shrink back in the face of darkness and by carrying forward the truth he so fearlessly championed.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott responds to killing of Charlie Kirk
Texas gov. Greg Abbott released the following statement on X:
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the assassination and passing of Charlie Kirk. Charlie’s voice was a beacon for millions of young Americans searching for truth, courage, and conviction. This senseless act of violence has no place in America. Our prayers are with Charlie’s family and his loved ones, especially the two young children he leaves behind. Texas stands with them in mourning and in honoring Charlie’s enduring legacy.”
Charlie Kirk visit to Lubbock, Trinity Church
Kirk visited Lubbock in September 2023, participating in a Q&A with Pastor Carl Toti at Trinity Church.
The church shared video from the Q&A on its website.
During the Q&A, Kirk acknowledged his connections to the University of Oregon, which had just played Texas Tech’s football team at Jones AT&T Stadium, and reflected on witinessing Red Raiders throwing tortillas during the game.
Beyond ribbing about the game, Kirk discussed his Christian faith, work with Turning Point USA and thanked the Lubbock communty for hospitality in what he called his second visit to the Hub City in recent years.
