WASHINGTON—In response to the assassination of conservative activist, political organizer, and Turning Point USA cofounder Charlie Kirk in Utah—the most recent incident in a troubling pattern of political violence in the United States— Freedom House Presidents Gerardo Berthin and Annie Boyajian issued the following statement:
“The murder of Charlie Kirk, as he was engaging in a public political discussion with university students, represents a direct assault on democracy. In a free society, people should never face physical violence for exercising their free speech. The perpetrator of this horrific crime must be held accountable, and all Americans should continually reject and denounce any violence as a solution to the country’s challenges.
“Kirk’s assassination is the latest in a series of deplorable attacks on political figures across the country and ideological spectrum, including the attempted assassination of two state lawmakers in Minnesota in June, one of whom was killed; an arson attack on the home of Pennsylvania’s governor in April; and two assassination attempts against President Donald Trump in the months ahead of last year’s election. There is a growing risk that these violent incidents could have a lasting effect on the basic functions of US democracy. The fear they inspire, and the security measures they necessitate, could prevent people from meeting and interacting directly with public officials and political candidates at the national, state, and local levels, or deter people from running for office themselves. In short, political violence has the potential to suppress
civic participation and obstruct the free flow of ideas that makes representative government possible.
“In addition to ensuring that such crimes are swiftly condemned and consistently punished in accordance with the law, public figures in every position of influence should join ordinary people in emphasizing our universal interest in civil discourse and a peaceful, lawful society where all fundamental rights and liberties are protected. Open debate is essential to democracy, and freedom of expression is enshrined in the US Constitution. As we disagree and weigh competing views and priorities, ensuring the protection of free expression is paramount to a thriving democracy and a secure and prosperous society.”
