President Donald Trump posthumously presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to conservative activist Charlie Kirk on October 14, 2025, during a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden. The award, accepted by Kirk's widow Erika, honors the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder who was assassinated in Utah last month. The event coincided with what would have been Kirk's 32nd birthday.
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on September 2025 during his 'American Comeback Tour' at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The 31-year-old activist, known for mobilizing young conservatives, had built the organization since founding it in 2012 at age 18. Turning Point USA now boasts hundreds of chapters nationwide and reported revenue of nearly $85 million, including efforts with the Trump campaign on voter turnout.
At the Rose Garden ceremony, Trump praised Kirk as 'a fearless warrior for liberty' and 'a beloved leader who galvanized the next generation like nobody I've ever seen before.' He noted the timing: 'We're entering his name forever into the eternal roster of true American heroes.' Trump also addressed rising political violence, stating, 'We've watched legions of far-left radicals resort to desperate acts of violence and terror because they know that their ideas and arguments are persuading no one.'
Erika Kirk, 36, accepted the medal on behalf of her husband and was recently named CEO of Turning Point USA. Holding back tears, she said, 'God began a mighty work through my husband and I intend to see it through. The torch is in our hands now.' She highlighted the organization's student network as 'the heartbeat of this future and of this movement,' adding, 'Everything that Charlie built, you guys are the legacy holders of that.'
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, recognizes meritorious contributions to national security, world peace, or cultural endeavors. Attendees included Argentina's President Javier Milei, Attorney General Pam Bondi, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, faces charges of aggravated murder.
Kirk's death has sparked discussions on political violence, with data showing increases across extremist ideologies. Supporters view him as a martyr, as echoed at a public memorial in Glendale, Arizona, weeks earlier where tens of thousands gathered.