After Charlie Kirk fatal shooting, SC lawmakers issue outpouring of support

South Carolina lawmakers across political parties are united in condemning political violence after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was shot and killed in Utah.

Kirk, the 31-year-old co-founder of conservative youth group Turning Point USA, was speaking at an event at Utah Valley University when he was shot in the neck. President Donald Trump confirmed in a Truth Social post that the influencer died from the gunshot.

The school initially stated that a shooting suspect was taken into custody around 1:15 p.m. (MDT), USA Today reported, however a spokesperson for the university has since told the New York Times that the person in custody was not the shooter.

South Carolina lawmakers have issued an outpouring of support for Kirk’s family on social media as reports of the shooting and his death emerged.

“Our hearts break for the Kirk family, Turning Point USA, and all who had the privilege of knowing Charlie personally. He was a beacon of true leadership, rooted deeply in his faith as a Christian,” Rep. Nancy Mace (R-District 1) stated.

“This is an unspeakable horror,” Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-District 6) stated on X. “Any act of political violence is unacceptable, has no place anywhere, and must always be condemned.””This is truly heart-breaking” Rep. Ralph Norman (R-District 5) stated. “Elaine and I are praying for Charlie’s young family. Political violence has no place in America. Justice must be swift.”

“Keeping Charlie Kirk and his family in my prayers following today’s tragic incident at Utah Valley University,” Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) stated.

“Please say a prayer for Charlie Kirk right now,” Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-District 3) stated. “May the Lord protect him and provide his wife and family with comfort at this time.”

“We are devastated that Charlie Kirk was taken from us today. Charlie devoted his life to public dialogue and open conversation and ultimately sacrificed it for the same,” Rep. William Timmons (R-District 4) stated. “He was a loving husband, father, a friend to many, and inspired a movement of young conservatives. His beautiful family, colleagues, and many supporters are in my thoughts and prayers. This is the United States of America — we should be safe to debate differing ideas in the public square.”

“I am horrified by the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Violence has no place in this country. Deranged opposition to conservatives using inflammatory language has consequences. I know Charlie was a faithful person who valued God, family, and America. Roxanne and I are praying for his wife Erika, and their children,” Rep. Joe Wilson (R-District 2) stated.

“I am devastated by the murder of Charlie Kirk. A man of faith, a devoted family man, and a leader who never wavered in his convictions. Political violence must never be tolerated in America. My prayers are with his family and loved ones during this heartbreaking time,” Rep. Russell Fry (R-District 7) stated.

“Please join Peggy and me in praying for Charlie Kirk and his family,” Gov. Henry McMaster stated.

Bella Carpentier covers the South Carolina legislature, state, and Greenville County politics. Contact her at bcarpentier@gannett.com