More than a month after conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death, two Republican lawmakers in Frankfort say they plan to introduce legislation honoring his life each year in Kentucky.
In an Oct. 14 press release—on what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday—Burlington lawmakers Sen. Steve Rawlings and Rep. TJ Roberts announced plans to file bills in their respective chambers during the 2026 legislative session to officially recognize Oct. 14 as “Charlie Kirk Day.”
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was a well-known conservative voice who spoke frequently on college campuses and national platforms before he was shot and killed on Sept. 10 at an event at Utah Valley University. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, has been charged with aggravated murder and other offenses. He has not yet entered a plea and is due back in court later this month.
Rawlings, who transitioned from the state House to the Senate in 2025, said Kirk “dedicated his life to ensuring that every American could speak freely and think boldly,” adding that his impact will endure through the young people he inspired and the ideas he championed.
Roberts, a freshman legislator, said they hope the day will serve not just as a tribute but as “a renewed commitment to uphold respectful dialogue, courage in the face of adversity, and the conviction that faith and truth endure.”
A vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, Kirk hosted a popular podcast and had over 5 million followers on X. Known for his controversial views, he was praised by many Republicans as a staunch defender of free speech.
However, Democrats often viewed his legacy differently, pointing to his outspoken criticism of diversity and inclusion programs, gun control, feminism, and Islam.
A U.S. House resolution honoring Kirk described him as a model of “civil discussion and debate” and someone who worked to promote unity without compromising conviction. It passed with unanimous Republican backing and support from 95 Democrats, including Kentucky’s lone Democratic congressman, Morgan McGarvey. Still, 58 Democrats voted against it, 38 voted present, and 22 abstained.
Kentucky Senate Democrats did not respond to requests for comment, and House Democrats said the caucus had no statement.
In a separate Oct. 14 message, the Republican Party of Kentucky urged Americans to honor Kirk’s legacy, stating, “He believed that truth matters, that faith should guide one’s actions, and that purpose gives life meaning. Charlie gave his energy to causes bigger than himself.”
Lawmakers in Frankfort will reconvene for the 60-day 2026 legislative session on Jan. 6.
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