Florida leaders unite in grief, Democrats condemn political violence after Charlie Kirk's assassination
Florida Democrats are speaking out this Thursday against political violence following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah.
"I am deeply disturbed by the murder of Charlie Kirk. Violence has NO place in our politics, and the Florida Democratic Party condemns this despicable and heinous act in the strongest of terms," state party chair Nikki Fried issuing a strongly worded statement.
"Our country is great because we value different perspectives and the fierce debate of ideas in the public square. As Americans, we may not all agree on everything, but one thing we can agree on is that, no matter how deep the ideological difference, disagreements shouldn't turn to political violence. I will keep Charlie's wife, Erika, and their young children in my prayers," she added.
Charlie Kirk assassinated during Utah university event
Kirk, a right-wing political activist and influential voice for young conservatives, died Wednesday after being shot in the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was 31.
The father of two was addressing students at an event for Turning Point USA, the organization he co-founded in 2012, when the attack occurred. According to video shared on social media, Kirk had just been asked about mass shootings in the U.S. before he was struck. Witnesses told CBS News they saw a large amount of blood, and Kirk was rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
President Donald Trump reacted online, writing: "The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us."
Florida Republicans mourn Charlie Kirk's death
Florida Republicans also expressed sorrow and outrage over Kirk's killing. U.S. Sen. Rick Scott called him "a patriot who loves his country" and urged all Americans to join him in prayer.
"I am completely heartbroken by the tragic loss of my friend and fellow patriot, Charlie Kirk, in a despicable, targeted act of violence. Ann and I are praying for the Kirk family, his wife, young children, and the entire Turning Point community," Scott wrote on X.
Gov. Ron DeSantis said: "Rest in Peace, Charlie Kirk. Casey and I are praying for his family. Charlie was a warrior for liberty, and his murder is a tragedy for our nation."
Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar added: "I am shocked and horrified by the news of Charlie Kirk being shot and I am praying for him and his family."
Rep. Carlos A. Gimenez said: "Lourdes and I are shocked by the horrific events at Utah Valley University and are praying for @charliekirk11. Political violence has absolutely no place in America.."
Sen. Ashley Moody reported her office was monitoring the situation closely and offered prayers "for Charlie Kirk, the students, and this nation."
The gunman remains at large, according to police.