Charlie Kirk’s murder has reignited a national debate on what kind of nation Americans want to be. Historians say the lessons of this time will depend on Americans themselves and their ability to live with differing opinions without violence. As people grapple over Mr. Kirk’s legacy, it is another test of the American experiment.
On one hand, Mr. Kirk has been lionized as an inspiration by young conservatives, but on the other, he was pilloried for his views on civil rights, transgender rights, and feminism. President Trump blamed the left for what he said was savage rhetoric that led to Mr. Kirk’s death, while Democrats and Republicans lashed out at each other.
Governor Spencer Cox of Utah tried to bring people together by emphasizing that Charlie Kirk championed free speech and his murder makes it difficult for others to express their ideas freely. However, many people still have strong emotions towards him due to his divisive views.
Academics and public figures are offering different perspectives on Mr. Kirk’s legacy, with some saying he was a dark force and others acknowledging the need for civil discourse despite his hateful rhetoric. Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde emphasized the importance of public grief and graciousness, while professor Dannagal Goldthwaite Young noted that mainstream media has taken steps to tone down the debate.
Governor Cox appealed to young people to build a culture that is different from what they are suffering through right now. Elisabeth Bumiller wrote that Charlie Kirk’s assassination highlights the need for Americans to choose a different path in their politics, one that prioritizes civility and understanding over violence and division.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/13/us/politics/charlie-kirk-legacy-trump.html