September 14, 2025
NEWS DIGEST
by Brandon Waltens
Good morning,
Texans are mourning the murder of national conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University at the age of 31.
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was a prominent voice for conservative youth whose work inspired millions across the country.
Texas leaders were quick to express their condolences.
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the assassination and passing of Charlie Kirk,” said Gov. Greg Abbott. “Charlie’s voice was a beacon for millions of young Americans searching for truth, courage, and conviction. This senseless act of violence has no place in America. Our prayers are with Charlie’s family and his loved ones, especially the two young children he leaves behind. Texas stands with them in mourning and in honoring Charlie’s enduring legacy.”
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said, “Charlie was a dear friend for many years, and I am heartbroken and in disbelief over his murder. Please keep his wife, his two young children, and all of his loved ones in your prayers.”
House Speaker Dustin Burrows pointed to Kirk’s faith, quoting from one of his final posts: “Just three days ago, Charlie reminded us in a tweet: ‘Jesus defeated death so you can live.’ Today, we grieve the loss of a man who not only proclaimed that truth but lived it with courage, conviction, and unwavering faith. His passing is a painful reminder of the brokenness around us, yet also a powerful testament to the eternal hope we share in Christ. Charlie’s voice inspired millions to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom. Though his time here was cut short, his mission endures. My prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. May we honor his legacy by refusing to shrink back in the face of darkness and by carrying forward the truth he so fearlessly championed.”
Attorney General Ken Paxton posted, “This act of pure evil is truly sickening. Charlie was an American patriot, a friend, and a faithful husband and father. Join me in praying for Charlie’s family and friends at this time. Words can not express how horrific this is to all of us.”
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn likewise offered his prayers, writing, “Sandy and I join the entire nation in lifting Charlie Kirk’s family up in prayer. May God comfort them during this unimaginably difficult time.”
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz said, “Charlie Kirk’s murder was an act of unspeakable evil. Charlie was a close friend; we first met when he was just 18, and Turning Point was a nascent idea. Charlie was courageous, brilliant, compassionate, and powerfully honest. He was a strong Christian who boldly proclaimed the Gospel. Charlie loved our country deeply, and we will forever remember him and honor his legacy.”
Kirk was credited with galvanizing a new generation of conservatives, particularly on college campuses. In Texas, his speeches routinely drew enthusiastic crowds of young people eager to hear his call to stand boldly for faith, family, and freedom.
Turning Point USA currently boasts over 900 chapters, including at Texas’ biggest universities.
Featured
By Robert Montoya and Adam Cahn
After first defending the course, Texas A&M President Mark Welsh has announced the termination of a professor who included instruction on introducing LGBT topics to minors in a children’s literature class. The professor had ignited statewide controversy after a viral video and recorded audio displayed university leaders defending the class content even as lawmakers and the governor demanded accountability and firings.
Late Tuesday, in addition to terminating the professor, Welsh announced that “deans and department heads will conduct an audit of course offerings to ensure they align with the course descriptions.”
Real Texans
In this week's edition of Real Texans, Michael sits down with his friend and former colleague, Brooke Rollins. They talk about growing up in small-town Texas, the importance of state-based policy action, and her role as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.
New interviews with REAL TEXANS every Sunday!
State
Abbott Signs Law He Says Will Ban ‘Sharia Compounds’ in Texas
The legislation comes in response to the controversial proposed EPIC city.
Lawmaker Steps in After UNT Student Faced Backlash for Opposing Celebration of Charlie Kirk Shooting
Separately, an allegation has emerged that university teaching assistants laughed about the assassination.
Texas State Terminates Professor Who Called for Overthrow of US Government
The professor called the U.S. government “the most bloodthirsty” in world history.
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