House Speaker Mike Johnson told Congress, “We called out political violence in America,” as lawmakers passed a resolution making October 14, 2025, a National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk. The decision comes after Kirk, a well-known conservative activist, was killed during an event at a Utah university. It was a tragedy that has reignited debate over political violence and national commemoration.
Charlie Kirk
Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking to a crowd of roughly 3,000 at Utah Valley University. According to Global News, a single shot was fired from a nearby building, striking Kirk in the neck as he answered questions about mass shootings in America. The event was immediately labeled a “political assassination” by Utah’s governor, and President Donald Trump, a close ally, confirmed Kirk’s death on social media, calling him “loved and admired by all, especially me, and now he is no longer with us”.
Kirk’s had a significant influence on American politics. As the founder of Turning Point USA, he was a leading voice for conservative youth and an important figure in the MAGA movement. He was known for his willingness to engage in debate, drawing large crowds on college campuses and amassing millions of followers online. According to CNN, Kirk’s murder was “the latest in a troubling trend of politically motivated violence across the ideological spectrum,” referencing recent attacks on public officials and candidates from both parties.
National Day of Remembrance
Recently, Congress approved a resolution naming October 14 as a National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk. While the measure is nonbinding, it carries symbolic weight. Apparently, 96 House Democrats declined to support the resolution, with 22 walking out during the vote. Speaker Mike Johnson said, “We called out political violence in America,” underscoring the resolution’s intent to condemn such acts and honor Kirk’s legacy.
The fallout from Kirk’s assassination has been felt deeply. His wife Erica and their two children have become the focus of public sympathy, while political leaders across the spectrum have called for reflection and restraint. The tragedy has prompted renewed calls for dialogue about gun violence, mental health, and the boundaries of political discourse.
Controversy
The move to create a National Day of Remembrance has stirred debate. Critics argue that such commemorations risk deepening partisan divides, especially when opposition is so visible. Supporters, however, see the day as an opportunity to unite Americans against political violence and to honor the memory of a figure who, for many, embodied the right to free speech and civic engagement.