Young conservatives across the nation are rallying behind the legacy of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, in the wake of his assassination. Kirk’s emphasis on traditional values, especially those centered on faith, family, and moral responsibility, has resonated strongly with a generation that is increasingly struggling with depression, unhappiness, and a search for meaning in life. His death has not muted his influence; rather, it has sparked a renewed commitment among his supporters to promote the values he championed and to continue his mission of encouraging young Americans to pursue fulfillment through a spiritual and family-oriented life.
Elizabeth Oliver, a Georgetown University student, noted that the rising rates of depression and suicide among young adults have made the pursuit of true happiness more urgent. She described Kirk’s message as one that offers guidance and hope to those seeking a purpose beyond material desires. ‘Charlie always talked about how desires of the flesh aren’t fulfilling,’ Oliver said, ‘but instead of pursuing those things, we should turn ourselves toward higher purposes like family, marriage, and God.’ Her remarks reflect a growing consensus among young conservatives that the cultural and social norms of the past few decades have led to widespread dissatisfaction, prompting many to seek solace in traditional values and religious faith.
Americans’ overall happiness has seen a significant decline in recent years, with the U.S. falling eight spots in the 2024 World Happiness Report. Young adults, in particular, have experienced the steepest drop in happiness, ranking 62nd internationally, while Americans over the age of 60 ranked 10th. This stark contrast highlights the generational divide in emotional well-being, with many young adults feeling adrift in a rapidly changing social and cultural landscape. The increase in depression and suicide rates further underscores the urgency of Kirk’s message, as more young people are turning to faith and family for emotional security and purpose.
Following his death, the organization Turning Point USA has experienced a notable surge in interest and support, with over 120,000 new campus chapter requests reported in the wake of his memorial service. This growth reflects a broader movement among young conservatives who are aligning themselves with Kirk’s values. Philip Wohltorf, a student at Boston University College Republicans, noted that the organization’s efforts have sparked more campus engagement, with a renewed emphasis on fostering respectful debate and dialogue. ‘America was founded on the principle of freedom of speech and dialogue,’ Wohltorf remarked, ‘and nobody did it better than Charlie Kirk.’ His words resonate with many young conservatives who believe that continued engagement in political and cultural discourse is essential for shaping a more stable and fulfilling society.
The cultural divide in American society continues to widen, with many young people expressing a heightened commitment to the values Kirk promoted. While some may view these traditional values as outdated or restrictive, the growing number of young people embracing them signals a shift in priorities. Oliver and Wohltorf both believe that the impact of Kirk’s legacy will extend far beyond his lifetime, as future generations seek to build upon the foundation he laid. ‘Ultimately,’ Oliver said, ‘Charlie said he wants to be remembered for his courage, his faith, and I think that message is resounding very strongly with my generation.’ The sentiment shared by these young conservatives underscores the enduring influence of Kirk’s message and the importance of his legacy in shaping future values and societal trends.