"Our nation has been well served for 250 years by robust, respectful, and bipartisan debate," U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn said in a social media post. "We must honor Charlie’s legacy by returning to open debate without the threat of political violence. The future of our nation depends on it."

Everyone of us at Turning Point USA is crushed and devastated by the hateful murder of our founder and guiding light, Charlie Kirk,” the groups said in a statement.

Kirk had previously held events at UCF, with the most recent one in 2023, and had also spoken at other Florida universities this year.