Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA have become more than just an outlet for conservatives on college campuses nationwide; they have become a spearhead for uncomfortable conversations to be had on an even larger scale.  

With the death of Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, 2025, the future of Turning Point has been left in the hands of members and a widow alike. The question of what his legacy will look like in history is heavily reliant on how the future unfolds.  

Popular for hosting “prove me wrong” type events on campuses, these intense conversations are believed to have played a role in Kirk’s death. Jake Warner, a junior and member of Central Connecticut State University’s chapter of Turning Point, said there are two paths that the U.S. can go down that reflects the effects of Kirk’s death.  

“His death could lead the country in one of two ways,” he said. “It can either be a step in a direction where there’s more of a united peace, and as a collective being like this is not OK- or it’s going to go into a place where this is something that is normalized. This could set a precedent of assassinating your opponents if you don’t agree with them.” 

Turning Point was founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk as a nonprofit organization that aims to promote free speech, limited government and active civic participation among a younger demographic. 

Students can request a Turning Point USA chapter on their campus to promote conservative thinking in an intriguing and relevant way that resonates with students. Also included is a student incentive program that grants rewards to students who practice debates on their campus.  

His legacy has been built into Turning Point with these initiatives creating a proportional relationship between participation and following a more conservative school of thought.   

After the news of Kirk’s death, some, like freshman Maja Serwniski, were introduced to something they want to become a part of.  

“I’ve known about Charlie Kirk, but it wasn’t until his assassination that I found out about Turning Point,” Serwniski said. “I’ve been conservative my whole life without knowing, and I was interested in this chapter because I’m not afraid to speak my mind. I think a lot of young voices woke up because we need to start doing something about it.” 

CCSU has a Turning Point Chapter, and its president senior Ian Howe says some of the best parts about being part of the organization is the ability to have an open dialogue.  

“The First Amendment is the first for a reason, because it’s the most important right we have,” Howe said. “We’ve seen what a lack of free speech can do; you don’t have much of a civilization without it. Without it democracy cannot exist.” 

Concerning the open dialogue, freshman Elora Cordero said more conversations need to be had, so understanding can be reached. 

“Bringing more awareness to different topics and being able to discuss those topics in a respectful manner rather than an argument that gets nowhere, I feel like those conversations help get rid of the negative connotations surrounding Turning Point,” she said. “Not to just change people’s minds, but to also bring attention to, this is my viewpoint, maybe you can see where I’m coming from, and I’ll be open minded to yours.” 

But even those without ties to Kirk’s organization felt the situation was extreme. Senior at Central Connecticut State University, Gabriella Sciarretto, was shocked by the news of Kirk’s death.  

“I was [taken aback] because of how influential, good or bad, he was,” she said. “He did not deserve to die.” 

Sciarretto reflected on Kirk’s role in public life, recalling watching Kirk’s videos online where they would often address controversial issues.  

“It was very interesting to always see how he would interact with people…he was so very open-minded about all of it, about listening,” she said. “He had been one of the leading figures in the 21st century.” 

Kirk’s videos gained widespread popularity among college students nationwide. His message left a strong impact, encouraging discussions that challenged social norms. 

“Having seen him speak, it’s weird hearing he died,” Howe said. “It’s not grieving but still mourning relatively the same as if he were a loved one. It’s a tragedy.”