The University of Minnesota’s Northrop Auditorium witnessed a historic turnout as over 2,000 individuals gathered for the first Turning Point USA event following the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. The event, part of the ‘This is the Turning Point’ tour, was hosted by conservative commentator Michael Knowles, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s campaign. Knowles, a well-known figure in conservative media and author of several books, took the stage to honor Kirk’s legacy. His opening remarks highlighted Kirk’s significant contributions, both politically and religiously, noting that his most public accomplishments were political while his most important were religious. “Charlie accomplished more in his 31 years than most people could accomplish in many lifetimes,” Knowles stated, emphasizing Kirk’s role as a faith-driven leader. The tour, now rebranded as the ‘American Comeback Tour,’ has continued its journey, with the next stop set at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Governor Glenn Youngkin is listed among the speakers on the tour’s official website, signaling continued political alignment and support for Turning Point USA’s mission. The event also drew attention due to the surge in campus protests, with around 50 demonstrators holding signs advocating for free speech while expressing dissent against Kirk’s views. “Although we do not condone the actions that led to his death, we also do not condone the things he said in life,” stated protester Trey Brumley. The tour, which began on September 10 at Utah Valley University where Kirk was shot by alleged assassin Tyler Robinson, has seen its second stop at Colorado State University, where a vigil was held instead. The event’s success, marked by an hour-long line forming before doors opened, underscored the deep resonance Kirk’s work continues to hold among supporters, especially among younger generations who see his activism as a model for engaging in political discourse and advocacy.