The aftermath of the assassination of Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk has drawn widespread national reaction, with political leaders and media figures offering statements in response to the killing.

Among those who addressed the incident was Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, whose remarks have drawn scrutiny for linking the tragedy to the events of January 6.

Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking with students during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

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The conservative activist, known for his frequent visits to college campuses and debates on political issues, was struck in the neck by a gunshot fired from a building roughly 200 yards away.

He was rushed from the scene by security and later pronounced dead.

Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.

Governor Pritzker issued his statement soon after reports confirmed Kirk’s death.

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He began by offering condolences but also said the shooting must be seen within the broader context of political violence.

“First, I want to express my sympathy to Charlie Kirk’s family and to Charlie Kirk, who obviously, has, you know, become a target for somebody,” Pritzker stated.

“I don’t know whether it’s political violence because I don’t know who did it. I know they seem to have somebody in custody, but I will say that political violence, unfortunately, has been ratcheting up in this country.”

Pritzker went on to cite recent violent incidents, including shootings in Minnesota, and suggested that the rhetoric of national political leaders has contributed to what he described as a “new era of political violence.”

“We saw the shootings, the killings in Minnesota. We’ve seen other political violence occur in other states, and I would just say it’s got to stop,” Pritzker said.

“And I think there are people who are fomenting it in this country. I think the president’s rhetoric often foments it. We’ve seen the January 6th rioters, who clearly, have tripped a new era of political violence.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is blaming Charlie Kirk being shot on President Trump and January 6th. pic.twitter.com/zhNSndGNGt

— TaraBull (@TaraBull808) September 10, 2025

The governor’s remarks did not reference other high-profile examples of inflammatory rhetoric in recent years, including comments made by Democratic leaders and elected officials.

This is why:
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The focus of his statement remained on January 6 and his view that rhetoric from President Donald Trump has heightened political tensions nationwide.

Kirk’s assassination has intensified ongoing debate about violence directed at public figures and the role of political rhetoric in shaping the national climate.

The shooting has drawn comparisons to previous threats and acts of violence against elected officials and political leaders.

Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the killing. Federal authorities confirmed that the investigation involves coordination between the FBI, Utah state officials, and local law enforcement.

As of Wednesday evening, no official determination had been made regarding motive.

The loss of Kirk, who had been a visible presence on college campuses and in conservative political circles, has left many across the country calling for accountability and reflection.

At the same time, the reactions of political leaders such as Governor Pritzker have underscored the divisions in how Americans interpret the causes and consequences of political violence.

The investigation into the assassination remains ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the search for answers continues.

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