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A Defiant Message
In his address, Shapiro adopted a rare tone of aggression, saying he would not be intimidated. “And to those who would intimidate, who would seek to stop us, who would seek to end free discussion, who believe that they have ownership over public spaces and can violently threaten and kill people who speak freely, we are not going to stop. And I have two words: Fck you.”*
Known for measured language, Shapiro’s bluntness underscored the gravity of the moment. He went on, “We will not stop telling the truth. We will never stop telling the truth. We will never stop debating and discussing. We will never stop standing up for what America is and for what you should be. And we will never let Charlie Kirk’s voice die. Goodbye to my friend, Charlie Kirk. May your memory be a blessing for your family and for your country and for all of us.”
WATCH:
Erika Kirk Issues Her Own Warning
Charlie’s widow, Erika Kirk, released her own powerful remarks that same day. She made clear that Turning Point USA’s mission will not falter. She declared that those responsible for her husband’s death “have no idea” what they unleashed in her, in Kirk’s supporters, and across the world. Erika confirmed that Turning Point will keep its signature events alive — including campus tours, the annual “America Fest” in Phoenix, and Kirk’s nationally broadcast radio show.
Divided Reactions on the Right
Not everyone on the right is pleased with Shapiro’s response. Veteran broadcaster Michael Savage blasted Shapiro online, accusing him of exploiting Kirk’s death too soon. “Ben Shapiro! Have you NO shame? Charlie’s body is not even buried and you’re trying to cash in on his reputation!” Savage wrote on X.
The reaction highlights an emerging rift among conservatives over who will fill the leadership void. While some see Shapiro as the natural successor to bring the message back to college campuses, others fear he may be overstepping before Kirk has even been laid to rest.
The Battle Ahead
What’s clear is that the fight over free speech in America’s universities is intensifying. With Turning Point pledging to continue Kirk’s work, and Shapiro promising to step onto campuses himself, the conservative movement is signaling it has no plans to retreat.
Shapiro’s vow to carry Kirk’s voice forward, paired with Erika Kirk’s steely resolve, makes one thing certain: the next chapter of this battle will be fierce, public, and deeply personal.
