Arizona Senate Republicans Mourn the Loss of Charlie Kirk, Condemn Political Violence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Arizona Senate Republicans are mourning the loss of Charlie Kirk, after a shooting at an event at Utah Valley University today. The suspect is currently at large. The state lawmakers are calling on all Arizonans to pray for his family during this horrific time. Kirk, Turning Point USA founder and an iconic conservative figure, was exercising his right to engage with students when he was violently targeted and shot on stage.
"Charlie Kirk was a devout Christian; he believed in Jesus Christ as his savior, and Charlie is currently in Heaven with his maker," said President Petersen. "This was a senseless act of evil in its truest form. We pray for his wife, his two young children, and his entire family for the heartbreaking loss they are currently grieving."
"This attack serves as a sobering reminder of the dangerous consequences that arise when political disagreements cross the line into violence," said President Petersen. "Regardless of where you stand on the political spectrum, there is never any justification for silencing someone with a bullet. Political violence has no place in America. Not on college campuses, not in our communities, not anywhere. It is concerning when such violence tears apart and intimidates the public or specific groups for political gain. The attack represents a direct assault on our democracy, our free speech, and the values we uphold as Americans. Today, I state unequivocally: enough is enough. This is not a protest; it is an act of terror. It must stop. We must defend our democracy, protect those who strive to improve our country, and ensure that the future of our nation is determined by ideas, ballots, and dialogue—not by bullets. There is no excuse for attempting to silence someone through violence, whether it be attempted assassinations of President Trump or this attack on a leader who fosters open conversations. The pattern is alarming. Political violence is real, it is escalating, and it is unacceptable. I am absolutely shocked, sickened, and outraged to hear about the passing of Charlie Kirk. Today was a dark day where evil was on full display. He was singular, indispensable, and irreplaceable. America will not be the same without him."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus kquintero@azleg.gov