Charlie Kirk's killing: A dangerous moment for America?

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Sep 11, 2025

The shocking assassination of a well-known conservative activist sparks intense discussions about its ramifications for public safety and political dialogue. The hosts analyze Charlie Kirk's controversial influence on young voters and the incendiary rhetoric permeating modern political discourse. They also explore the emotional fallout among political leaders and the growing concerns over violent language in politics. The impact of this tragedy raises critical questions about identity, ideology, and the state of political engagement in America.

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INSIGHT

Shooting During Campus Event

Charlie Kirk was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University during a campus event and answered a question about mass shootings moments before he died.
Broadcasters warn the story is evolving and an active manhunt was underway immediately after the attack.

INSIGHT

Kirk's Influence On Young Voters

Justin Webb and colleagues stress Charlie Kirk's outsized influence mobilising young voters and shaping conservative discourse.
They argue Kirk brought many new young people into politics and amplified Donald Trump's reach among youth.

INSIGHT

A New Blueprint For Political Influence

Marianna and Sarah explain Kirk pioneered a social-media activist blueprint, using outrage-driven clips to reach beyond his base.
That tactic moved fringe ideas into mainstream debate and expanded his political power.

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Charlie Kirk, the right-wing influencer and trusted ally of Donald Trump has been shot dead while speaking with students at a university in Utah.

Kirk was one of the most prominent conservative activists and media personalities in the United States, and a trusted ally of Donald Trump. Many credit his influence - particularly with young people - as a key reason behind Trump’s victory in last year’s election.

The president, visibly angry and upset, delivered a message to the nation last night in which he described Kirk’s killing as a “dark moment for America”.

Justin, Sarah and Marianna assess who Charlie Kirk really was. what made him so successful and how dangerous a moment this could be for America as a whole.

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent

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This episode was made by Purvee Pattni, George Dabby, Alix Pickles, Rufus Gray and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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