Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was tragically shot and killed on September 10 while participating in “The American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. Dr. Wendy Patrick, a seasoned prosecutor and author, suggests that Kirk’s influence may have made him a target, not just for his outspoken views but for the widespread impact of his message.

Dr. Patrick believes that concern over Kirk’s ability to sway public opinion could have fueled this act of political violence. “Charlie Kirk had a significant audience who were genuinely listening to what he had to say,” she commented.

According to Patrick, Kirk’s influence reached far beyond the borders of the United States. In the wake of his assassination, vigils were held globally, with gatherings taking place in major cities such as London, Sydney, and Berlin, to honor his memory.

Dr. Wendy Patrick emphasized that Kirk was targeted not only because he was vocal, but because his words resonated with many. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Dr. Wendy Patrick says Charlie Kirk was targeted not just for speaking, but for being heard. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

TPUSA reported Charlie Kirk’s memorial at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, drew 90,000-100,000 attendees on Sept. 21.

“They were curious in knowing what made someone like Charlie Kirk tick,” Patrick said. “Could it be that he was on to something that maybe was worthy of a little bit more exploration on their part?”

She also pointed out that while Kirk’s message wasn’t new, his method stood out. His goal, Patrick said, wasn’t to debate, but to converse with those who opposed his views graciously.

“What was new is the boldness, gentleness and graciousness with which Charlie Kirk was able to explain that,” Patrick said.

Dr. Wendy Patrick says Charlie Kirk’s influence and respectful debate style made him a global voice. (Dr. Wendy Patrick)

Commentators across the political spectrum acknowledged Kirk’s reach. Ezra Klein said in an opinion essay, “When the left thought its hold on the hearts and minds of college students was nearly absolute, Kirk showed up again and again to break it.”

An Network Contagion Research Institute study shows that widespread justification for lethal violence is increasing among left-aligned younger individuals.

“Assassination culture is spreading on the left,” Kirk posted on X months before his assassination.

For Patrick, Kirk didn’t just speak, people listened to a message that, she says, reached both minds and hearts.

She says that Charlie Kirk, “expressed a message that was not only interesting to listen to, but impactful to the hearts of the listeners.”