Virginia Governor Youngkin Tells College Crowd, “You Will Be The Next Charlie”
Governor Youngkin Urges Students To Uphold Charlie Kirk’s Legacy
In a solemn and impassioned address, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin urged a crowd of thousands at a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) rally at Virginia Tech to continue the mission of the organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk.
The rally, part of TPUSA’s “American Comeback Tour,” was a planned stop for Kirk before his assassination on September 10. Youngkin, along with conservative journalist Megyn Kelly, stepped in to honor the late activist and rally his supporters.
The event, held at Burruss Hall Auditorium, drew a full house of attendees from across Virginia and neighboring states. A small group of protestors also gathered outside the venue. Youngkin’s remarks centered on the legacy of Kirk, who founded TPUSA in 2012 to champion conservative values among young people.
“I wish Charlie were here tonight,” Youngkin said. “But the truth is that the question that has been asked over and over again is, ‘Who will be the next Charlie?’”
Looking out at the audience, the governor answered his own question with a resounding call to action: “You will be the next Charlie. All of you. And that is something to take home tonight.”
Since Kirk’s death, TPUSA has reported a significant surge in student interest, with tens of thousands of requests to start new chapters or join existing ones.
Kirk’s widow, Erika, has been named the new CEO, and the organization has vowed to continue its mission and expand its reach. Kirk was a prominent figure in the conservative movement, and his advocacy significantly influenced the 2024 presidential election. His assassination, for which a suspect has been arrested and charged, has been framed by many in the conservative movement as an attack on free speech.
Youngkin concluded his speech by announcing a $100,000 donation to support TPUSA chapters across the nation. As the event closed, students were given posters of Charlie Kirk as a memento, with many leaving the hall feeling galvanized to carry on the work of the organization’s late founder.
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