Today marks what would have been Charlie Kirk’s 32nd birthday, a milestone now observed in remembrance of his life and legacy. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was assassinated on September 10 while speaking to students at Utah Valley University, as reported [1] by The Gateway Pundit.
His death, widely condemned across the political spectrum, has only strengthened the movement he began at age 18 to inspire young conservatives across America.
Kirk launched TPUSA in 2012, growing it into the largest conservative youth organization in U.S. history. The organization now includes over 3,500 active chapters on high school and college campuses nationwide.
Following his death, interest in TPUSA surged dramatically. Within two days of the assassination, the group received more than 32,000 new chapter requests from across the country. TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet confirmed that the organization has already more than doubled in size since that time.
“We doubled in size in less than a month.”
TPUSA spokesman @AndrewKolvet [2] explains how Turning Point USA is turning tragedy into purpose, honoring Charlie Kirk by expanding the movement he built. pic.twitter.com/wsILzT3UId [3]
— Turning Point USA (@TPUSA) October 9, 2025 [4]
In recognition of his impact, Congress and the White House are formally honoring Kirk’s contributions. The House of Representatives passed a resolution in September designating October 14 as the “National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson introduced the measure, which was co-sponsored by 165 House Republicans. No Democrats signed on. The resolution commemorates Kirk’s efforts to advance free speech, constitutional principles, and civic engagement among younger generations.
To mark the occasion, President Donald Trump will return to Washington, D.C., today to posthumously award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the highest civilian honor in the United States.
The ceremony, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. ET at the White House, will recognize Kirk’s “exceptional contributions to the nation’s prosperity and civic life,” according to administration officials.
After a JAMPACKED 36 hours, President Trump has arrived back home in Washington, DC from Israel in the wee hours of the morning
This man is an absolute legend. Never stops!
Next up: Awarding Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, 4pm today❤️ pic.twitter.com/GxZN1wGqzx [5]
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) October 14, 2025 [6]
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is traditionally presented to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to American society in fields such as security, culture, or public service.
Past recipients have included figures from both public and private life whose actions have left a lasting impact on the nation.
Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, will accept the medal on his behalf. Erika, who has since assumed leadership of Turning Point USA as its new CEO, has vowed to continue her husband’s mission to “empower young Americans to embrace liberty and responsibility.”
The ceremony follows President Trump’s recent return from the Middle East, where he helped finalize a historic peace agreement. The Gateway Pundit’s Jordan Conradson will be among those covering the White House event live.
Supporters nationwide have planned gatherings and vigils throughout the day to celebrate Kirk’s birthday and his contributions to the conservative movement.