On September 10, 2026, Turning Point USA (TPUSA) commemorated the first anniversary of Charlie Kirk's assassination with memorial events that revealed both a surge in engagement and deepening divisions within the organization.
Key facts
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.
In December 2025, TPUSA reported 140,000 students expressed interest in joining after Kirk’s death.
Erika Kirk, Charlie's widow, now leads TPUSA, which has over 1,500 college chapters and 3,500 high school chapters.
Conspiracy theories surrounding Kirk's death have caused rifts among supporters.
Why it matters: The memorial events serve as a litmus test for TPUSA's future and the impact of Kirk's legacy on the conservative movement. His death catalyzed a wave of activism within the organization, but the persistence of conspiracy theories raises questions about its unity.
At Utah Valley University, students and friends gathered to honor Kirk's life and discuss the challenges facing the organization since his death.
The events featured prominent conservative figures, including Glenn Beck and Michael Knowles, emphasizing Kirk's influence on young conservatives.
TPUSA aims to maintain momentum from the surge of interest following Kirk's assassination, but internal divisions threaten to undermine that progress.
Driving the news: The memorial at UVU was held exactly one year after Kirk was fatally shot during an outdoor event. Attendees included students from TPUSA chapters across the country.
Sage Lloyd, president of the UVU chapter, spoke about the emotional toll of Kirk's death, describing it as a turning point for many members.
Memorials were also held at the Republican midterm convention, where Kirk was honored with a five-minute video tribute.
Vice President JD Vance addressed Kirk's children, praising their father's legacy and urging the party to unite.
State of play: Since Kirk's assassination, TPUSA has experienced both growth and strife. In December 2025, the organization announced a dramatic increase in student engagement.
TPUSA now counts more than 11,000 church partnerships, emphasizing its commitment to intertwining faith with conservative activism.
Erika Kirk has taken over as CEO, continuing her husband's vision of a politically engaged Christian movement.
Some students express concern that initial enthusiasm has waned, citing conspiracy theories that have divided opinions within the group.
The big picture: Kirk's assassination has left a complex legacy for TPUSA, intertwining political activism with a renewed focus on faith.
After his death, Erika Kirk encouraged members to view their work as part of a larger battle between good and evil, framing their political efforts as a religious mission.
TPUSA's messaging has increasingly adopted evangelical language, aiming to unite members through shared beliefs and values.
Yet, the spread of conspiracy theories, particularly those propagated by former TPUSA employee Candace Owens, has led to skepticism about leadership and loyalty.
What they're saying: Speakers at the memorial highlighted Kirk's commitment to open dialogue and respect for differing opinions.
“Charlie stood up for people on all sides to have a voice,” Lloyd stated, emphasizing the importance of challenging ideas in a respectful manner.
Frank Turek, a friend of Kirk, remarked on the enduring impact of Kirk's faith, saying, “Charlie wanted to be known for his faith in Jesus.”
Turning Point leaders continue to assert that Kirk's legacy is alive, with Lucas Miles stating, “The organization Charlie founded is still growing.”
By the numbers: The memorial events showcased the scale of Kirk's influence and the organization's reach.
TPUSA reported a membership increase of over 140,000 students since Kirk's death, signaling a strong interest in conservative activism.
More than 1,500 college chapters and 3,500 high school chapters are currently active under Erika Kirk's leadership.
A bronze statue of Kirk was unveiled during the UVU memorial, symbolizing his lasting legacy within the movement.
What's next: As TPUSA moves forward, it faces the challenge of maintaining unity and purpose in the aftermath of Kirk's death.
The organization plans to continue its outreach and programming, emphasizing the blend of faith and politics that Kirk championed.
Upcoming events, including the "Make Heaven Crowded Tour," aim to engage new members and reinforce the connection between spirituality and activism.
With the aggravated murder case against Tyler Robinson, the accused shooter, still pending, the organization remains vigilant about the narrative surrounding Kirk's death.