Who was Charlie Kirk?

Wheeling High School graduate Charlie Kirk, who rose from leading a youth-oriented conservative group to becoming a major far-right figure close to President Donald Trump, was shot in his neck and killed at Utah Valley University Wednesday.

Who was Charlie Kirk?

Kirk grew up in the northwest suburbs, rising from a suburban high school student to a major force in the national polarizing culture wars. He was 31.

He was the founder and president of Turning Point USA, a national organization focused on recruiting students to support conservative candidates and causes. Turning Point has other related entities.

Kirk’s LinkedIn profile states he delivered the commencement address at his 2012 Wheeling graduation ceremony. His profile also says he was on the high school basketball team and an Eagle Scout.

What’s Turning Point USA?

Kirk’s main career had been with Turning Point USA, which put him on the path to becoming a national political star. He spoke in a prime-time slot at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Kirk was considered one of the most influential figures in the nation when it came to dealing with bringing younger people into conservative politics. He traveled extensively, visiting high school and college campuses. He was shot while at the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour.”

Kirk created and presided over a substantial political operation. According to 2024 IRS records, Turning Point had revenue of $84.9 million and expenses of $80.9 million. He was also an author and the host of Salem News Channel’s “The Charlie Kirk Show.”