‘He inspired us’: USC Turning Point USA chapter reacts to Charlie Kirk’s assassination

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – Leaders of the University of South Carolina chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) said they are shocked and saddened by the death of Charlie Kirk.

The 31-year-old father, husband, conservative political activist, founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University. 

“It’s a predominantly conservative audience, so if someone on the left comes up to the mic let’s treat them with respect. Show the left the respect that we don’t get on these college campuses,” said Charlie Kirk during a visit to USC in April 2025.

Kirk set up his table outside the Russell House student union and did what he died doing: hosting a debate.

The university’s TPUSA Chapter President, Mia Weathers, said Kirk spoke with people who agreed and disagreed with him.

Weathers said more than 1,000 people came to the event, making it the most attended event on the campus.

“It was an incredible event,” she recalled. “We saw so many people when we were out here [people were] tabling on campus, just promoting everything; people were so excited that Charlie was coming out here.”

She said Kirk has made a huge impact on her life, and his legacy will never be forgotten.

“He inspired us to not be afraid to use our voice; to not be afraid to speak our minds,” Weathers said. “He inspired us to just keep fighting for what we believed in, and he just paved the way and laid the foundation for a lot of us.”

Many state political leaders from both sides of the aisle spoke about Kirk’s death.

“More and more I hear this drum beat that if you don’t agree with me, not that I should speak out against what you believe in, but I should eliminate you for what you believe in. It’s exactly the opposite of tolerance,” said U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R – SC).

Drew McKissick, Chairman for the South Carolina Republican Party, said it is all about public policy.

“You know, at the end of the day, that’s what politics is about, [it] is discussion that you want to translate into action — into public policy,” he elaborated. “So, this is about a public policy fight in America today.”

He also his desire for people to express their beliefs and stand up for what they believe in.

“Hopefully we’ll see again, those who have come up through this and who have been trained and who have got, you know, confidence to stand for things that they believe in, and will have an impact.”

House Minority Leader, Rep. Todd Rutherford (D – Richland) expressed disdain for political violence.

“Political violence has no place in America. I’m praying for Charlie Kirk’s loved one’s and for our country,” his statement on X reads.

Gov. Henry McMaster (R – SC) directed the State House flag be lowered at half-staff, along with state and political subdivision buildings until sunset Sunday. He posted on X, as well, praying for Kirk and his family.

USC TPUSA leaders said they plan to host a vigil for Kirk on campus.