President Donald Trump delivered a national address on Wednesday following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot and killed during an appearance at Utah Valley University.

Speaking in a four-minute televised statement, Trump called the shooter a “monster” and described the killing as a “dark moment for America.”

He praised Kirk’s life and work, emphasizing his influence on millions of young people and his dedication to conservative principles.

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“Charlie inspired millions, and tonight all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror,” Trump said.

“He was a patriot who devoted his life to the cause of open debate and the country that he loved so much — the United States of America. He fought for liberty, democracy, justice and the American people. He’s a martyr for truth and freedom, and there’s never been anyone who was so respected by youth.”

Kirk, 31, was on stage answering questions from students when a gunman fired from a rooftop, striking him in the neck.

The event, the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour,” ended in chaos as attendees rushed for safety.

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Thousands of students and supporters had gathered at the university when the fatal shot was fired.

Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social earlier in the day before delivering his formal remarks.

He described Kirk as a “wonderful American” who represented faith, liberty, and courage, and promised that his administration would ensure accountability for those involved.

The president also spoke about the broader climate of political violence, recalling the attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania, last year.

He warned against rhetoric that dehumanizes political opponents, saying it contributes to acts of violence.

“It’s long past time for all Americans and the media to confront the fact that violence and murder are the tragic consequence of demonizing those with whom you disagree day after day, year after year, in the most hateful and despicable way possible,” Trump said.

He went on to criticize those who, in his words, have compared “wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals.”

Trump stressed Kirk’s ability to connect with younger generations, noting that his mission was to bring students into the political process.

“His mission was to bring young people into the political process, which he did better than anybody ever, to share his love of country and to spread the simple words of common sense on campuses nationwide,” the president said.

In his closing remarks, Trump vowed that Kirk’s voice and influence would not be silenced by violence.

“An assassin tried to silence him with a bullet, but he failed, because together, we will ensure that his voice, his message and his legacy will live on for countless generations to come,” Trump stated.

“Today, because of this heinous act, Charlie’s voice has become bigger and grander than ever before — and it’s not even close.”

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TO MY GREAT FELLOW AMERICANS… pic.twitter.com/oRsrE5TTHr

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 11, 2025

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