Arizona Senate President Petersen to Introduce Legislation Honoring Charlie Kirk with Memorial Highway in Metro Phoenix

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                            

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Arizona Senate President Petersen to Introduce Legislation

Honoring Charlie Kirk with Memorial Highway in Metro Phoenix

PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen is honoring Charlie Kirk's life and legacy by introducing legislation in the upcoming session to rename State Route 202 as the Charlie Kirk Memorial Loop 202. This effort ensures that his faith, influence on America's youth, and his devotion to God, family, and country will never be forgotten.

Kirk, the visionary founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically assassinated last week in a cowardly act of terrorism, leaving a profound void in Arizona and across the nation. The proposed renaming of State Route 202, which encircles the eastern and southern portions of the Phoenix metro area and serves as a key transportation link for millions of Arizonans, aims to ensure that Kirk's contributions are remembered daily by those who travel its paths.

"Wednesday, September 10, 2025, will forever be noted in history as a dark day where evil in its truest form was on full display," said President Petersen. "Charlie Kirk was assassinated in cold blood by a cowardly terrorist and was targeted for his influence. But we must press forward. While Charlie Kirk cannot be replaced, this effort can make sure his legacy lives on."

Kirk lived out his faith boldly, dedicating his life to sharing biblical truth and encouraging millions of young Americans to stand firm in Jesus Christ. His work pointing the next generation back to God's Word and the timeless values of faith, family, and freedom was more impactful in his short lifetime than what thousands could achieve in their entire lives.

"We all have a role to play in carrying on Charlie's legacy," said President Petersen. "Through God's grace, by renaming this highway we can ensure that his name, his mission, and his witness to the gospel will endure for generations to come. Even in the midst of sorrow, God's Word reminds us that hope endures. Renaming this highway is a small step toward honoring Charlie's immense contribution, but it is also a call for each of us to press on in faith, to live courageously for Jesus, and to stand firm in the principles Charlie so boldly championed."

The 57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session begins Monday, January 12, 2026.

###

For more information, contact:

Kim Quintero

Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus

kquintero@azleg.gov