A statue of Charlie Kirk, the conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder assassinated in September 2025, is scheduled to be unveiled in New York's Times Square. However, many observers predict the monument will be vandalized shortly after installation.
Statue Details and Crowdfunding
Pro-Trump artist Sergio Furnari created the statue and has shared videos online showing the work. The project is funded through crowdfunding, but as of now, only about $1,500 has been raised out of a $150,000 goal. The fundraising platform states, 'There’s been lots of talk from politicians, and none of them, absolutely none of them, have come up with a serious plan or a financial business plan to install a memorial for Charlie. We the People can erect this eternal masterpiece.' Donors will have their names engraved on the monument's platform.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Reactions to the statue have been mixed. Many commenters noted that Kirk was 'just a podcaster,' while others expressed certainty that the installation would be destroyed if placed in a public location. One person wrote, 'From someone who lived in NYC, this Charlie Kirk monument won’t make it overnight without being vandalised.'
Background on Charlie Kirk
Kirk was a vocal advocate for gun control, opposition to trans rights, and promotion of religion. He was a close ally of Donald Trump. On September 10, 2025, he was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University.
Legal Proceedings
Last week, the preliminary trial of Kirk's alleged shooter began. Tyler Robinson, 23, is charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstructing justice, and witness tampering. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, though Robinson has not yet entered a plea. His attorneys have requested that the death penalty be removed as an option. Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, attended the court proceedings alongside three security guards, separately from Kirk's parents. Donald Trump Jr. also attended. After the trial, Mrs. Kirk declined to speak to the media. She previously stated that she 'forgives' her husband's shooter.
