State and local Republican and Democratic leaders have weighed in on the assassination of Conservative activist and President Trump ally Charlie Kirk following the arrest of his alleged killer.
“I am praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and friends,” Republican Westport First Selectwoman and gubernatorial candidate Jen Tooker said in an X post. “My 17-year-old asked me how could someone be killed — in the United States — for sharing their beliefs. I didn’t have a good answer for her. Our kids are watching. This is an extremely sad day for America.”
State Senate Republican leader Stephen Harding of Brookfield issued a statement shortly after the apprehension of Tyler Robinson for the assassination of Kirk on the Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
“Thank you to federal, state and local law enforcement for working night and day to apprehend the suspect,” Harding said. “As justice is pursued to the fullest extent of the law, we continue to mourn his loss. We also continue to extend our deepest sympathies to Charlie’s family, friends, and all who were inspired by his leadership.”
Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont today announced that – in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald Trump – he had ordered to be flown at half-staff effective immediately and remain lowered through sunset on Sunday, Sept. 14.
“Political violence of any kind has no place in our country and is never acceptable,” the governor said. “The tragic attack on Charlie Kirk today is absolutely awful. My prayers are with him and his family.”
Fairfield First Selectman Christine Vitale, a Democrat, addressed the impact political violence has on communities such as Fairfield. Vitale is being challenged in a special election by Republican Tony Hwang in a bid to replace the late Bill Gerber who died two months ago.
“In a time of national discourse on political violence, I want to be clear where I stand as First Selectman of the Town of Fairfield,” said Vitale. “There is no reason for anyone at any time to engage in political violence, especially when it results in bodily harm or loss of life. Our freedom of speech is sacred to us.
“However, I would like to also take a stand on dangerous speech here in our town, when elected officials use destructive words to describe political opponents, neighbors and friends. I do ask all elected officials of any party to join me in condemning acts of hate and take the opportunity to encourage all of us to treat each other with compassion.”
National reaction
Over the weekend there were various events to pay tribute to Kirk, ally of President Trump, who was fatally shot last week in Utah. A massive memorial is scheduled for Sept. 21 at the 63,400-seat State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
His widow, Erika Kirk, has pledged to continue his work, including his campus tours and podcast. Authorities have pointed to what they described as anti-fascist messages engraved on bullet casings in a rifle found near the shooting as potential evidence of a political motive.
