In a heartfelt and emotional speech on Wednesday night, Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the deadly shooting of Turning Point USA founder and father of two, Charlie Kirk, as a “political assassination” that challenges the core of American democracy.
“Today is a somber day for our state and a devastating one for our nation,” Cox expressed, condemning the act as an insult to the Founders’ belief that “all men are endowed with certain inalienable rights. The first among these is life.”
The Republican leader highlighted that Kirk was “above all, a husband and a father to small children,” emphasizing that his dedication to free speech was the reason for his campus visit.
Charlie believed in the power of free speech and debate to shape ideas and to persuade people…
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox speaks during a news conference at the state Capitol on Friday, March 3, 2023, in Salt Lake City. (Rick Bowmer/AP Photo)
Cox, hailing from Utah and 50 years old, has recently won another term as governor. During his campaign, he faced significant opposition from Rep. Phil Lyman, who attracted support from the party’s hard-right members.
Cox publicly endorsed President Donald Trump in July 2024, just weeks after an assassination attempt in Butler, Penn.
Cox, who had previously criticized Trump’s role in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, framed his endorsement as an act of unity.
