Gov. Pillen Reacts to Shooting Death of Charlie Kirk; Nebraskans Asked to Fly Flags at Half-Staff

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Gov. Pillen Reacts to Shooting Death of Charlie Kirk; Nebraskans Asked to Fly Flags at Half-Staff

LINCOLN, NE - Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement in reaction to the death of 31-year-old Charlie Kirk. Kirk, a conservative commentator, activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while taking part in an event at Utah Valley University earlier today.

"The news of Charlie Kirk's assassination is devastating, not only for conservatives, but for supporters of liberty and free expression everywhere. Charlie stood fearlessly, not only for his own beliefs, but for engagement and debate. Indeed, he was doing just that when he died. He inspired countless young people with his principled activism, including on campus right here in Nebraska.

Suzanne and I are deeply saddened by this act of senseless political violence, and I ask that all Nebraskans pray for God's grace and comfort to be brought to his wife and young kids. We must condemn and end political violence in America."

Gov. Pillen is also asking that Nebraskans heed the proclamation issued this afternoon by President Trump requesting that U.S. flags be flown at half-staff, starting immediately and until sunset on Sunday, Sept. 14, in memory of Kirk. In alignment with the President's order, all state, POW and other flags should also be flown at half-staff.