The Intelligence from The Economist

Combative, conservative, cut down: Charlie Kirk

30 snips
Sep 11, 2025
Ethan Wu, Asia's business and finance editor, dives into some provocative themes. He discusses the shocking assassination of a young conservative figure and its potential to deepen political divides. The conversation shifts to Asia, addressing a worrying trend of deflation that threatens economic stability. Wu also explores a fascinating study on psychedelics, revealing how they can profoundly influence spirituality among religious leaders. This blend of politics, economics, and mind-altering experiences makes for a captivating listen.
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ANECDOTE

Campus Assassination Of Charlie Kirk

  • Charlie Kirk was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University and died within hours, with the killer at large as the FBI searched.
  • The attack unfolded from a rooftop sniper amid chaos, captured in crowd footage as students fled.
INSIGHT

From Campus Confrontation To National Influence

  • Charlie Kirk built Turning Point USA from campus confrontations into a major MAGA youth movement and fundraising engine.
  • He combined confrontational activism with media skill to amplify conservative influence on young voters.
INSIGHT

Why US Political Violence Persists

  • Political violence in the US spans from local targets to presidential attempts and is enabled by weapon availability.
  • Securing public political events is especially hard given long-range firearms and widespread tolerance of violence.
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