ATLANTA () — Flags on Georgia’s state buildings will be lowered to half-staff to pay tribute to Charlie Kirk, a renowned conservative activist and influencer who was tragically shot and killed on Wednesday. Governor Brian Kemp made this announcement, stating that the flags will remain lowered until sunset on Sunday.
Governor Kemp conveyed on social media, “In memory of Charlie Kirk’s profound impact, I am directing that the flags of the United States and Georgia be lowered to half-staff on state buildings and grounds from now until sunset on Sunday. Please join Marty, the girls, and me in offering prayers for his family and the healing of our nation.”
President Donald Trump ordered all American flags throughout the U.S. to be lowered to half-mast just a few hours prior to Kemp’s announcement.
The fatal shooting of Kirk drew strong reaction from Georgia leaders.
Read statements below:
Gov. Brian Kemp
“Please join us in praying for Charlie Kirk. Political violence is never the answer!”
U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock
“Today’s act of violence against Charlie Kirk is both terrible and appalling. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Political violence can never be justified, and we must denounce it in any form.”
U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff
“I am deeply shaken and horrified by the news of Charlie Kirk being shot in Utah, and I hope for his recovery, as well as for the community at Utah Valley University. Political violence should not be tolerated.”
Attorney General Chris Carr
“We grieve the heart-wrenching passing of Charlie Kirk, who was a prominent voice for conservatives in our nation. As a husband, father, and man of faith, we ask for prayers for Erika and their children. Charlie’s death is a stark reminder of the deep fractures in America that need our courage, strength, and dedication to restore civility in this country.”
Speaker of the House Jon Burns
“Charlie Kirk was a committed man of faith, a loving husband, and a caring father. He spent his life promoting truth and fostering open dialogue, regardless of political alignment. No one has been as influential in advocating for the conservative youth movement in America, and his legacy will endure through the countless individuals he inspired. Dayle and I are keeping Charlie’s wife and two young children in our prayers as they endure this painful loss. It’s crucial for every American to unify in our determination to end political violence and hatred in all its forms.”
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger
“Tricia and I are lifting Charlie Kirk up in prayer. I pray for his health, strength and comfort as he recovers. At the same time, I want to speak clearly and firmly: political violence has no place in our country. It is un-American, it undermines our democracy and it dishonors the sacrifices of those who came before us. Disagreements should always be settled through debate, elections and the rule of law – not intimidation or violence. We must stand together in rejecting and recommitting ourselves to civility, respect and the principles that make our nation strong.”
Rep. Carl W. Gilliard
“In moments like these, we are reminded that our strength as a country does not come from our divisions, but from our shared humanity. It is not about Democrats or Republicans—it is about being human beings who care for one another, who stand up for justice, and who support the families who endure unimaginable heartbreak.
I urge every American to send prayers and support the family of Charlie Kirk. The nation must become a nation that prioritizes compassion over contempt, unity over division, and empathy over enmity.”
