7am How Trump is weaponising the assassination of Charlie Kirk
Sep 16, 2025
Osman Faruqi, a journalist and host of the Lamestream podcast, delves into the political aftermath following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. He discusses how the Trump administration is leveraging this tragedy to silence dissent, urging citizens to report critics. Faruqi highlights the stark polarization in reactions and the rise of far-right tactics like doxxing. The conversation emphasizes the growing authoritarianism and the chilling effect these narratives have on democracy, both in the U.S. and globally.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kirk Built A Youth Political Machine
- Charlie Kirk built Turning Point USA to mobilize young conservatives and shape campus politics through social media and events.
- By his death he was a major MAGA figure with huge reach, including a podcast audience of over half a million daily listeners.
Extremist Rhetoric Defined His Profile
- Kirk advocated strongly right-wing views on abortion, guns, race and migration, often using extreme rhetoric.
- His positions included promoting the Great Replacement theory and disparaging comments about Black Americans and Muslims.
Kirk Was A Key MAGA Mobiliser
- Kirk was closely allied with Donald Trump and credited with helping mobilize young people for Trump on campuses.
- Turning Point's campus activism and viral videos helped cement Kirk as a leading MAGA face globally.