Turning Point USA (TPUSA), the far-right college group founded by the late Charlie Kirk, has received a wave of financial support from major donors and Donald Trump allies since his murder, according to campaign finance experts and consultants. The fundraising operation, which Kirk built into a formidable force in Republican politics, is now seeing renewed backing as the group aims to expand its campus presence.
Among the most notable pledges is $1m from Lynn Friess, widow of mega-donor Foster Friess, who was Kirk's first major backer. In an email to allies, Friess said her donation would support a surge in new TPUSA chapters across the country. Far-right former Fox News host Tucker Carlson also issued a fundraising appeal, while Dallas multimillionaire Doug Deason plans to increase his already substantial contributions.
TPUSA reported raising $85m in 2024, more than double its 2020 total of $39m, according to tax filings. At the time of Kirk's murder, the group boasted 900 college chapters and 1,200 high school chapters. A spokesperson said 54,000 inquiries about launching new chapters had been received since his death.
Republican consultants attribute Kirk's fundraising success to his close ties with Trump and the broader MAGA movement. Chuck Coughlin, an Arizona-based consultant, said Kirk was an extraordinary fundraiser with deep connections to Trump and his son Don Jr., calling his loss a significant blow. TPUSA is now generating content lionising Kirk to raise money and organise students, he added.
Major donors to TPUSA over the years include dark-money groups such as the Bradley Impact Fund ($23.6m from 2014-2023), Donors Trust (nearly $4m from 2020-2023), and the Deason Foundation (close to $1.8m from 2016-2023). The group also benefited from hosting events at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club. On 18 September, TPUSA's board appointed Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, as CEO, fulfilling what they said was his wish.
Campaign finance watchdogs expect further donations in the near term following Kirk's assassination. Larry Noble, former general counsel at the Federal Election Commission, said Kirk built a successful fundraising machine and that wealthy backers are making large contributions to show respect and keep TPUSA well-funded, with some using the murder to attack critics of his legacy.
