On Wednesday, Sept. 10, conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking to a group of college students at Utah Valley University. While people try to grapple with the death, questions arise surrounding the growing tension brewing within American politics. 

Kirk’s violent death has sparked a number of controversies online between people leaning left and right. Kirk’s large political standing has resulted in the inclusion of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), according to ABC. 

“We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation,” Kash Patel, Director of the FBI, explained on X. 

The killing astonished a number of figures, even reaching President Trump, whom Kirk greatly supported throughout his time spent in politics. Left-wing politicians have also commented on the tragedy, according to NBC. 

“The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form,” Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, explained on X. 

On Sept. 11, the FBI located the suspect, Tyler Robinson, according to CNN. Robinson was recognized by his father as well as a family friend who turned the tip into authorities. 

Robinson was previously known by his classmates for sharing views with Kirk, but later a colleague described him as rather restrained, according to CNN. 

Kirk’s prominent place in the current political atmosphere means this assassination did not just affect leaders within the United States. Students and staff at Highlands High School work to stay updated on the death of Kirk. 

“I’ve known of Charlie Kirk since probably 2019. It’s just crazy to think that such a pivotal online personality and such a pivotal person in the political space is actually gone,” Gabe McDermott (12) said. 

Several prominent names on social media and news outlets have spoken out on the topic, some of whom heavily opposed Kirk. This includes left and right-leaning content creators and politicians.

“The content that I have seen coming from people on the other side, like Dean Withers, has been very empathetic towards the family and loved ones of Charlie. I think this is making many realize that even though you may disagree, he was a human and died in a way that no one should,” Caroline Eagen (11) said.

Some people believe stricter gun control is necessary to reduce violence, while others feel it limits personal rights and freedoms. Many argue over how much the government should regulate firearms, and the conversation continues without a clear agreement.

“I think that guns are important for some things, but then they’re overused or they shouldn’t be allowed in certain situations,” Layla Zepf (10) said.

In recent years, the divide between political parties has been growing exponentially. Ideological differences have reached unprecedented levels, resulting in pressure surrounding government issues. 

“I definitely think political violence is never a productive answer…it has no place in our country or any country. Especially in the last few decades, there’s been so much division between the local parties and violence just makes that even bigger,” Aaron Sary, government teacher, said. 

As people begin to come to terms with his death, Kirk serves as a reminder of political division. Whether or not one agrees with his political views, his death highlights the issues currently plaguing American politics.