During a recent debate in the Florida House, Democratic State Representative Ashley Viola Gantt asserted that conservative activist Charlie Kirk did not die from an assassination, but rather, “died by gun violence.” She emphasized the need for accurate language regarding such serious issues, calling for a unified approach to discussing gun violence in the country.
Gantt and other lawmakers were discussing House Bill 125, which designates Kirk’s birthday, October 14, as “Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance,” honoring him as a murdered activist. Gantt criticized this move, stating, “We don’t need this day to commemorate someone who was mediocre and racist,” adding that he had minimal ties to Florida aside from property ownership.
Kirk, 31, was the founder and CEO of Turning Point USA and was shot on September 10 during an event at Utah Valley University. He had been a notable figure in the conservative movement, particularly in connection to Donald Trump’s 2024 election campaign. His murder sent shockwaves through the nation, raising different perspectives on how to label the tragedy.
Gantt voiced her belief that Kirk’s legacy was divisive and not deserving of the proposed honor, saying that many Floridians support non-divisive free speech. “When we hear of assassination, it’s usually associated with a person or a political position. Charlie Kirk died from gun violence,” she remarked, reiterating her advocacy for gun control efforts.
She acknowledged the tragedy of his death for those who loved him, stating, “That can’t be denied.” The bill, which passed in the Republican-controlled House with a vote of 82-31, also resulted in the naming of a road in Miami-Dade County after Kirk. Representative Bruce Antone criticized the initiative, questioning why a person known for vilifying others should be commemorated.
