Since its founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed, the headquarters of Turning Point USA in Phoenix, Arizona, has become a site of mourning. Kirk's advocacy for free speech and faith resonated deeply, especially with young conservatives seeking representation.
In nearby Glendale, tens of thousands from across the US gathered on Sunday to honor the slain right-wing activist. His widow, Erika Kirk, forgave the 22-year-old suspect, saying "the answer to hate is not hate." In contrast, President Donald Trump blamed the "radical left" for his death and praised Kirk as a "great American hero."
Kirk was instrumental in turning out young voters for Trump in the 2024 presidential election, but espoused multiple views that some called racist, misogynistic, anti-immigrant and transphobic.
DW correspondent Ines Pohl traveled to Arizona to explore whether Kirk's death could become a moment of unity — or fuel further division.