Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger responded to the assassination of conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, expressing that “human lives have disappeared.”
In a conversation with the interim president of the University of Southern California (USC), Schwarzenegger praised Kirk as a “great father” and “great husband,” emphasizing his role as a “great advocate” for Republican and conservative causes. This discussion followed the tragic incident where Kirk was fatally shot in the head after attending a Q&A session with students at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Wednesday.
“I was really upset that someone’s life was taken simply because of differing opinions,” Schwarzenegger noted. “It’s incredible. He was an excellent communicator and a strong advocate for the Republican side.”
He further highlighted Kirk’s communication skills, mentioning that he connected well with students regardless of their stance on various issues.
“I just thought, it’s such a loss. He was a wonderful father and husband, and I couldn’t help but think of his children,” he added.
Schwarzenegger also remarked on the ongoing debate about preventing political violence following Kirk’s assassination, noting that both social media and mainstream media have contributed to division among Americans. He pointed fingers at political parties, saying both Democrats and Republicans are exacerbating the splits.
“We have to face the fact that the division is largely caused by social media companies and mainstream media. All we’re facing are attacks from various fronts,” he said.
Reports noted that celebrities, including Schwarzenegger and his son-in-law Chris Pratt, as well as pop star Mandy Moore and actress Candace Cameron Bure, have condemned Kirk’s assassination.
Political representatives across the spectrum, including President Trump, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, and Senator John Fetterman, have expressed their condolences regarding Kirk’s loss, which they see as a blow to advocates for free speech.
Trump mentioned he would posthumously award Kirk the “President’s Medal of Freedom.”
