Turning Point USA (TPUSA), the conservative youth group founded by Charlie Kirk, is facing internal turmoil as a revolt against his leadership gains momentum. The organisation, which has grown from campus activism to a major force in Republican politics, is now grappling with dissent from within its ranks over its direction and close ties to Donald Trump.
TPUSA has raised tens of millions of dollars from wealthy donors and secret backers while promoting disinformation about the 2020 election and Covid-19 vaccines. Its revenues soared from $4.3 million in 2016 to nearly $39.8 million in 2020, according to tax filings. The group claims allies on over 2,500 high school and college campuses, positioning itself as the largest youth organisation in America.
Kirk's leadership has drawn criticism from medical experts, ethics watchdogs, and some Republican operatives. The group's political arm, Turning Point Action, supported the 6 January rally that preceded the Capitol attack, with Kirk boasting of bringing "80+ busloads of patriots to DC to fight for the president."
Internal dissent has been fuelled by concerns over Kirk's management style and the group's focus on Trump-aligned candidates. Some members have called for a more independent approach, sparking a revolt that threatens TPUSA's cohesion as it prepares for the 2024 election cycle.
