(The Center Square) – Shreveport city officials have released statements after Turning Point USA founder and conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated while speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday during his “American Comeback Tour.”
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Councilman Grayson Boucher and Councilman Jim Taliaferro released statements saying political violence has no place in this country or in Shreveport.
“We must continue to work together to resolve our differences with respect, compassion, and peace,” said Arceneaux. “I am committed to building a safer and more unified community.”
The mayor released his statement on the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, mentioning both acts of political violence.
“Above all, Charlie was a father and a husband,” said Boucher. “Heather and I are praying for Charlie’s family. Lord God, give them peace and comfort. No one, and I mean no one, should be killed because of their political views or their right to free speech. We live in America, land of the free and home of the brave. Political violence, such as the assassination of Charlie Kirk that we all witnessed yesterday, can’t be tolerated in this free and great nation! Godspeed, Charlie Kirk.”
Taliaferro also addressed the First Amendment.
“In order for us to continue to be the United States of America, we need to unite around this fundamental idea: Though I may disagree with what you say, I will defend to the death your right to say it,” he said. “Charlie died defending your right to free speech against someone who was trying to silence him and you.”
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk,” said Arceneaux. “Political violence threatens the very foundation of our democracy.”
