Turning Point USA (TPUSA) is experiencing an unprecedented surge in support following the assassination of its founder, Charlie Kirk. In just 48 hours after his death, more than 32,000 individuals have contacted the conservative student organization about starting new chapters, according to Andrew Kolvet, executive producer of The Charlie Kirk Show. TPUSA currently operates 900 chapters at the college level and 1,200 in high schools across the United States.
Kolvet described the overwhelming interest as “truly incredible,” noting that Kirk’s longtime goal of establishing a chapter in every American high school may now be within reach. Kirk, 31, was fatally shot during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University last week — the first stop on his anticipated “American Comeback Tour.” The killing has shocked the conservative movement and galvanized its supporters nationwide.
Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, has pledged to carry forward her husband’s mission. Speaking in a powerful address Friday evening, she declared, “The movement my husband built will not die… It will become stronger, bolder, louder, and greater than ever.” TPUSA confirmed that its annual AmericaFest conference, scheduled for December, will move forward as planned, signaling the organization’s commitment to continuing Kirk’s legacy.
A public celebration of Kirk’s life will be held next Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Former President Donald Trump is expected to attend and deliver remarks. Kirk had a notable influence among young conservatives, especially on college campuses, where he promoted open political dialogue and challenged what he saw as leftist dominance in academia.
Kirk’s death has also reignited debate about the tone of political discourse in the U.S. Some Republicans have blamed increasingly hostile rhetoric from the left for fostering a dangerous climate. In contrast, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has called on his own party to moderate its language, warning against branding opponents as “Hitler” or “autocrats.” He urged a shift back toward civil and respectful political debate.
As TPUSA moves into a new chapter, many believe the organization is entering a defining moment. While fueled by grief, its growth reflects a renewed sense of purpose among its supporters. Whether the surge in interest will translate into sustained momentum remains to be seen, but the impact of Charlie Kirk’s life — and death — is already reshaping the conservative youth movement.
