Kyle Rittenhouse shared his grief over the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk in an interview with Fox News Digital. Their friendship began in 2021, linked through their involvement in conservative activism. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, had been a vocal supporter of Rittenhouse during his legal troubles, which garnered significant media attention and sparked intense political debate.
The day Kirk was murdered, Rittenhouse was at work. He recounted, “I was on my lunch break at work. I just got home to let my dog out. And I went on X, and the first video I saw was my friend being murdered.” The raw emotion in his words speaks volumes about their bond. The shocking nature of Kirk’s death left Rittenhouse devastated. “I took the rest of the day off work. I took the rest of the week off of work because Charlie meant a lot to me,” he expressed.
Kirk’s influence on Rittenhouse extended beyond friendship. He provided a platform for Rittenhouse, featuring him on his show and including him in various events organized by Turning Point USA. At the AmericaFest in 2021, Kirk praised Rittenhouse, saying he was “a hero to millions.” This endorsement significantly shaped Rittenhouse’s public image during a time of intense scrutiny and division.
In 2024, Rittenhouse faced protests during an appearance at the University of Memphis, prompting Kirk to threaten legal action against those who confronted his friend. Such incidents highlight the deep connections formed within their political circle and underscore the challenges they faced.
Since his acquittal in the Kenosha shootings in 2021, Rittenhouse has mostly maintained a low profile. His attendance at Kirk’s memorial service, attended by thousands, marks a significant public moment for him since those turbulent days. The memorial service, which took place in Glendale, Arizona, was notable not only for its scale but also for the array of speakers, including prominent political figures.
Kirk was shot while speaking at an event in Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. His death has left many in the conservative community reeling. Rittenhouse’s tribute reflects a common sentiment among friends and supporters who viewed Kirk as a guiding force in conservative circles, affectionately dubbed “the godfather of campus conservatism.”
As Rittenhouse navigates his path forward in the aftermath of these events, his recollections of Charlie Kirk reveal the profound impact of their friendship during a period of political upheaval and personal turmoil. Kirk’s legacy as a charismatic leader continues to resonate with those who admired him and the values he championed.
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