Charlie Kirk's killing sparks firings and outrage as reactions expose deep divides

In the days since the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, institutions from airlines to schools have moved quickly to discipline employees accused of celebrating or mocking his death, a reflection of the charged atmosphere surrounding the killing

In the days since the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, institutions from airlines to schools have moved quickly to discipline employees accused of celebrating or mocking his death, a reflection of the charged atmosphere surrounding the killing.

On the right, some have called for the aggressive punishment of anyone seen condoning his assassination. Former adviser to President Donald Trump and right-wing podcaster Steve Bannon called for mass arrests and a crackdown on universities, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed staff to identify and discipline service members who mocked or condoned Kirk’s killing, two defense officials told NBC News.

Charlie Kirk in Glendale, Ariz., on July 31, 2024.Laura Segall / AFP - Getty Images fileKirk was one of the right’s most prominent and polarizing voices. He built his following by amplifying the false claim that the 2020 election was stolen and by railing against what he called “woke” culture. His comments on race, feminism, LGBTQ rights and immigration often drew sharp criticism, sparking campus protests when he visited and making him a lighting rod for mockery and inspiration.

Kirk was the 31-year-old co-founder of conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, a nonprofit that promotes conservative politics on high school and college campuses nationwide. He was fatally shot Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University.

Officials on Friday identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, now in custody, as a suspect in his murder.