Turning Point USA returns to Utah after Charlie Kirk assassination | USAEMALL.com

LOGAN, Utah – Turning Point USA returned to Utah Tuesday night for its first event in the Beehive State since the conservative campus organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, was assassinated at a college speaking event earlier this month.

Kirk was scheduled to appear on campus at Utah State University in Logan as part of his speaking tour, but a revamped cast of speakers includes Gov. Spencer Cox, Rep. Andy Biggs and former Rep. Jason Chaffetz.

‪Cox received a mix of boos and cheers, but the moderator urged hecklers to calm down — ‬invoking Kirk’s memory and calling for an uninterrupted discussion.

Kirk had criticized some of Cox’s more moderate positions. The governor is a Republican. 

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People raise placards reading “This is our Turning Point” during a memorial service for slain conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium, in Glendale, Arizona, U.S., September 21, 2025.  (Brian Snyder/Reuters)

Cox called Kirk’s assassination “an attack on American ideals.”

“It was treasonous,” he said, before noting that Utahns wouldn’t respond with rioting and violence — prompting a loud  cheer.

Kirk was shot and killed in the courtyard at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. 

A suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, witness tampering and obstruction. He could face the death penalty if convicted.

On Tuesday, supporters showed up hours early from all around Utah for the event, which saw greatly enhanced security measures, including drones, security at every door, uniformed police officers and teams in tactical gear, including counter-snipers.

The crowd topped an estimated 5,000 in what organizers said was likely the biggest crowd drawn to date.

Early in the event, the leader of the campus chapter thanked police and security guards for their presence, prompting thundering applause.

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Charlie Kirk speaks before he is assassinated during Turning Point’s visit to Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (Tess Crowley/The Deseret News via AP)

Sen. Mike Lee also appeared remotely, blaming the looming “Schumer shutdown” and his Senate responsibilities for not being present in person.

“I desperately wish I could be there with you in person. And under any other circumstance, I would be,” Lee opened. “My virtual appearance will have to suffice for now, but it really is an honor. And a pleasure to be asked to pay tribute to my friend Charlie Kirk.” 

The event had kicked off just a few hours before the deadline to pass a bill to fund the government.

TURNING POINT USA DRAWS 2,000 AT FIRST TOUR EVENT SINCE KIRK’S ASSASSINATION

Charlie Kirk throws hats to the crowd after arriving at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025 in Orem, Utah. (Trent Nelson/The Salt Lake Tribune/Getty Images)

Before Kirk was set to speak at the TPUSA event, Utah State University issued a statement in response to concerns raised by students and alumni. The university acknowledged receiving messages expressing unease about the event, which was organized by the campus’s chapter.

The university emphasized its commitment to free speech, academic inquiry, and maintaining a neutral platform for the exchange of ideas. 

“Anytime a controversial speaker comes to campus, university community members have several options and can decide what is right for them,” the school wrote. 

While student organizations are allowed to invite speakers of their choosing, the university clarified that it does not endorse or align with any group’s views.

This is a developing story. Stick with Fox News Digital for updates.