The tragic assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has shaken the political world, prompting tributes from leaders across the spectrum. But comments made by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) in the aftermath have drawn heavy criticism, with many accusing her of using the moment to settle old political scores rather than honoring the 31-year-old’s life.
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was gunned down on Wednesday while hosting a “Prove Me Wrong” debate event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was struck in the neck by a single rifle round fired from a rooftop while engaging in a Q&A on mass shootings. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Kirk died of his injuries later that day, leaving behind his wife Erika and their two young children. Authorities are still searching for the shooter, described as a “person of interest” caught on campus surveillance.
Yet Omar’s response to the tragedy immediately drew backlash. Appearing alongside Mehdi Hasan, Omar reflected on Kirk’s career with pointed criticism rather than sympathy.
“What I do know for sure is that Charlie was someone who once said, you know, ‘Guns save lives,’ after a school shooting,” Omar said. “Charlie was someone who was willing to debate and downplay the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.”
