LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — The president of Michigan State College’s chapter of Turning Level USA says the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk in Utah is a tragedy that ought to by no means occur once more in American politics.
Alex Bitzan, who leads the MSU scholar chapter of the nationwide conservative group, stated Kirk’s killing Wednesday at Utah Valley College left members grieving.
Charlie Kirk assassinated at occasion at Utah college
“I would have the same exact response if it was someone I disagreed with and this behavior is just not acceptable under any circumstances,” Bitzan informed 6 Information.
Kirk, 31, was shot and killed whereas talking at a campus occasion for Turning Level USA. Authorities say the shooter fired a single shot from a rooftop and fled. Police are nonetheless trying to find a suspect. U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, referred to as this “an act of pure evil.”
“Considering of Charlie Kirk, his household, and the neighborhood at UVU after the horrific capturing,” Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer wrote on social media. “We should always all come collectively to face up towards any and all types of political violence. It’s unacceptable.”
Bitzan stated the group is concentrated on supporting one another and reaffirming their dedication to peaceable political engagement.
“Charlie clearly had conviction in his beliefs and was very, very willing to represent what he believed,” Bitzan stated.
The MSU chapter of Turning Level USA is holding a vigil for Kirk tonight outdoors of Wells Corridor, the place Kirk spoke earlier this yr. It’s certainly one of many vigils being held at campuses within the U.S.
Kirk based Turning Level USA in 2012 and was identified for his outspoken conservative views.
Kirk’s capturing is certainly one of an escalating variety of assaults on political figures, from the assassination of a Democratic state lawmaker and her husband in Minnesota to final summer time’s capturing of President Donald Trump, which have roiled the nation.
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Trump introduced Kirk’s demise on his social media website, Fact Social: “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie,” Trump wrote.
Kirk’s rhetoric and activism drew sturdy reactions. Supporters credit score him with energizing debate amongst younger conservatives. Critics accused him of selling divisive views on race, gender and faith, and of advancing conspiracy theories. He was extremely essential of homosexual and transgender rights, opposing what he referred to as “gender ideology.” In previous remarks, he characterised the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as a “mistake.”
Allies typically spotlight his assist for Israel, whereas critics accused him of antisemitism and selling “replacement theory,” a declare he denied.
The Related Press contributed to this report.
