Horrified reactions have followed the assassination of Charlie Kirk, co-founder and activist at Turning Point USA. The killing has drawn strong condemnation from public officials, who stress that violence is not a solution to the nation’s problems.
Officials say the act was an attempt to suppress Kirk’s First Amendment right to free speech. “That’s what the assassin who did this was attempting to do: silence the First Amendment rights of Freedom of Speech of someone he disagreed with,” one statement read.
As Americans prepare to mark the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, calls for unity and adherence to democratic values have intensified. “Tomorrow, we are commemorating the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attack on September 11th on our values of freedom, tolerance and democracy,” said State Senator James Tedisco (R-Clifton Park).
The statement drew a parallel between recent violence and past acts of terrorism. “There’s no difference between what the terrorists did on 9/11 and what the terrorist who killed Charlie Kirk did today!” Tedisco said.
He emphasized that while physical destruction is possible, foundational American ideals remain intact. “It must be extremely frustrating that they can never destroy the idea of freedom and liberty. That’s why we commemorate tomorrow because you may tear down buildings and kill innocent people, but you will never destroy the ideas contained in our constitution and bill of rights. They are inalienable and come from a higher power.”
Tedisco called for civility amid political disagreements: “We can disagree passionately about politics and culture, but we can’t allow our country to devolve into madness and violence. That’s never the way. We are better than that.”
Quoting Abraham Lincoln, he urged Americans to heed their better instincts: “Remember what Lincoln said: let’s listen to ‘the better angels of our nature.'”
He extended condolences following Kirk’s death: “My deepest prayers go out to Charlie Kirk’s family and many friends and supporters and to our nation for peace and healing.”
