What’s Next for America?

On September 10th, a political activist and commentator by the name of Charlie Kirk was assassinated on the campus of Utah Valley University. But this isn’t the end of the story for the Kirk family, Turning Point USA, which was Kirk’s organization, and the United States of America. Within a three-week span, Kirk’s alleged perpetrator has been caught. As well as that, Erika Kirk, the wife of Kirk made several public appearances, and a memorial service was held in memory at State Farm Stadium, including speakers like Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump.

According to USA Today, Kirk’s alleged killer is a twenty-two year old by the name of Tyler Robinson. Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray stated that Robinson’s DNA was found on a towel wrapped around the weapon used to assassinate Kirk. Gray also stated that the roommate of Robinson shared the texts between them and Robinson that exposed him as the perpetrator. Robinson made his first appearance in court six days after the attack.

Erika Kirk, the wife of Charlie Kirk, addressed the nation shortly after her husband was killed, standing near the chair where Kirk would film episodes for The Charlie Kirk Show. According to ABC News, Kirk mentioned her kids, thanked President Trump and Vice President Vance, and announced a celebration of life service, which was held last Sunday the 21st. Turning Point USA also announced Erika Kirk as their new CEO.

This act of violence has continued to bring an effect on students of Palisade High School, especially those who are politically active. Junior Addison Stover stated, “The first few days were a little rough, then I realized, that of course it’s still terrible, there are many great things that have come from this event… there have been a lot of people going to church, and many other countries have joined to protest against this.. mourning his loss.” Junior Solomon Helms shared his opinion on the tragedy, saying, “I’d say my emotions haven’t risen too much; I think the death itself is an interesting perspective on political culture in America, because we see both sides of the aisles condemning it almost absolutely.

“I’d say there’s a pretty clear consensus that all gun violence, regardless if it is the right or the left, it is still malice, and thus should be condemned… that in the end, no one should be killed for their beliefs, and we should, as a society, defend ourselves against malice and those who wish us harm.” continued Helms. While Palisade students may feel tensions rising during a hot political climate, always know that the Palisade High School staff is here for you and you have a voice here.