Sunflower State News

On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) delivered remarks on the Senate floor in memory of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was assassinated in Utah last week.

Senator Marshall began his speech by referencing scripture: “Typically, when we come to this hallowed floor, we’re speaking on behalf of ourselves as Senators. But tonight, I want to speak on behalf of also my good staff. In the start, I’d like to start with the scripture from the Psalmist… ‘the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit. And tonight, many of us, indeed, are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit.”

He continued by highlighting Kirk’s influence among young conservatives: “It’s tonight that we gather with heavy hearts to honor the extraordinary life of Charlie Kirk. A visionary conservative leader whose unyielding passion for freedom and faith ignited millions. Taken from us far too soon by a tragic political assassination on September 10, 2025, Charlie’s light continues to shine as a beacon for all of us who cherish liberty.”

Marshall recounted Kirk’s early involvement in politics and media: “Charlie was born in 1993 in a Chicago suburb, and he revealed political fire early on. As a high schooler, he volunteered tirelessly for campaigns, and he penned sharp insights for Breitbart, already challenging the status quo with the clarity of a born leader.”

The senator described how at age 18 Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012—a group that would go on to mobilize young conservatives through campus activism and media outreach.

“At just 18 in 2012, he founded Turning Point USA, a movement that would transform the landscape for young conservatives, millennials, and Gen Zers alike. Through electrifying campus activism, his influential podcast, and nationwide tours, Charlie mobilized a generation to stand firm against the shadows of big government and socialism,” Marshall said.

He noted that many people inspired by Kirk now work within Congressional offices: “Today, many of those inspired young adults serve in our Congressional Offices, carrying forward the fight to safeguard our traditional values and Constitutional rights from an ever-encroaching State. Many of these people will someday be speaking from this same floor.”

Marshall also spoke about Kirk’s commitment to faith-based values: “Now, Charlie wasn’t just a preacher. He was a soul shaped by faith. He was unafraid to declare himself a child of God. He opened his heart and mind to every voice, fostering genuine dialogue amid division. As a champion of free speech and individual liberty, he urged the next generation to reclaim traditional family values—the bedrock of a thriving America.”

He emphasized Kirk’s role as both an activist leader and public commentator: “Through Turning Point USA and his commanding media presence, he didn’t merely shape Conservative thought; he empowered a movement defending our ideas against progressive overreach with grace grit—and unwavering optimism.”

Reflecting on Kirk's death Marshall stated: “Though an evil act sought to silence him it only amplified his voice transforming Charlie into a hero—a martyr whose sacrifice kindled a fire in us all His spirit endures in hearts those empowered fight liberty reminding true leaders don’t fade—they inspire”

In closing Marshall called for unity over anger saying: “So I ask you—everyone listening today—including those broken-hearted crushed spirit let us honor Charlie living lives worthy legacy Let not your anger turn into hate Let me say again let not your anger turn into hate Please don’t let detractors win Rather channel emotions fighting renewed vigor heart soul great Republic nurturing next generation conservative leaders”

“Charlie’s flame burns brighter through each us May Charlie Kirk rest peace may God bless memory family shared mission Thank you Mr President I yield floor”