Senator Hoffman Advances Legislation to Create Charlie Kirk & Don Bolles Memorials, Rename Wesley Bolin Plaza
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Senate Government Committee Chairman Jake Hoffman is advancing legislation to rename Wesley Bolin Plaza and authorize the creation of two memorials honoring Charlie Kirk and investigative journalist Don Bolles.
SB 1686 formally renames Wesley Bolin Plaza as the Wesley Bolin and Charlie Kirk Freedom Plaza and authorizes memorials commemorating both Kirk and Bolles, who were killed as a result of their work and public speech. The legislation allows the placement of the memorials within the newly renamed plaza while requiring that all fundraising, design, and construction be handled privately. No public funds may be used for the memorials, ensuring taxpayers are not responsible for any associated costs.
"Wesley Bolin Plaza has always been a place where Arizonans gather to speak, debate, and engage in civil discourse," said Senator Hoffman. "By renaming this plaza and authorizing memorials for Charlie Kirk and Don Bolles, we are recognizing two very different individuals who shared something fundamental in common—a love for our constitutionally protected civil liberties. Both were killed because of their work and their willingness to speak freely. This legislation ensures their lives and sacrifices are remembered in a way that is respectful, orderly, and entirely privately funded, while preserving the integrity of our Capitol grounds."
SB 1686 outlines the process for establishing the memorials through legislative authorization and oversight, while setting a clear expectation that private supporters, not the state, are responsible for funding and construction.
The bill will be heard in the Senate Government Committee Wednesday morning.
###
For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus