Trump declares he’s giving Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk after influencer is shot lifeless at Utah campus | EUROtoday

President Donald Trump introduced on Thursday morning that he’ll posthumously give Republican activist Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the best civilian honor, after Kirk was fatally shot at a school campus.

“Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty, and an inspiration to millions and millions of people,” Trump mentioned. “We miss him greatly, yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on.”

Kirk, the founding father of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit devoted to instilling conservative values in younger individuals on highschool and faculty campuses, was a distinguished determine within the Republican Party. Kirk had fostered an in depth relationship with Trump and his household, serving as a determine within the presidential transition course of.

The 31-year-old Republican activist was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon whereas internet hosting a Turning Point USA occasion at Utah Valley University in what’s believed to be a focused assault.

Law enforcement officers are nonetheless trying to find the individual accountable for the killing. A motive is just not identified on the time, although many imagine it was an act of political violence since Kirk was well-known for evangelizing conservative beliefs.

The killing of Kirk has despatched shockwaves by way of U.S. politics, particularly impacting Republicans who seen Kirk as a vivid and shining instance of the way forward for the conservative celebration.

Despite creating affect with distinguished Republicans, together with the president and members of his cupboard, Kirk didn’t search an official administration place – as an alternative selecting to proceed participating with younger individuals within the hopes of inspiring others to hitch the Republican Party to reshape it for future generations.

Some conservatives, led by Trump, have characterised the killing of Kirk as that of a martyr.

Trump mentioned he would announce the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at a later date however promised it might draw “a very big crowd.”

The Medal of Freedom is given to recipients chosen by the president. It was created in 1945 to award those that have made an “especially meritorious contribution” to furthering nationwide pursuits, cultural endeavors, important public or non-public work, in addition to world peace.

Thursday’s announcement arrived on the high of Trump’s remarks honoring the lives misplaced within the September 11, 2001, assaults.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth additionally praised Kirk in remarks, saying he was the instance “of a Christ follower and American patriot.”

“Charlie we love you, we know that you have heard the Lord’s words. Well done, good and faithful servant. Like those on 9/11, he will never be forgotten,” Hegeth mentioned.