None of this makes sense. I just saw Charlie a few weeks ago at Wrigley Field with his family. He was a fan of the Cubs, and I of the Brewers. It was great to see him and talk to his wonderful parents. I first met him when he introduced me on the stage at CPAC years ago. Being from Illinois, he was well aware of what we were doing in Wisconsin. Both of my sons knew him and supported his efforts.
Charlie had endless energy. He worked harder than anyone I know in his generation. He was making a real impact on campuses and throughout culture. He knew his stuff and continued to grow his audience on the radio, on podcasts, and on television. Recently, I noticed my mother had added the flyer for his show on TBN along with the other programs she loves to watch on that network. She called me this afternoon in tears, hoping that the news she heard was a hoax.
Out of respect for Charlie, we have canceled a Young America’s Foundation event in Santa Barbara tomorrow with Ben Shapiro. Initially, we did so to focus on praying for Charlie’s recovery. Now, sadly, it will be a day of mourning—as well as prayers for his wife, children, parents, and larger family. We pray for all those he worked with at Turning Point, on his shows, and throughout politics, entertainment, and culture. We pray for our country.
Some have suggested that groups that bring speakers to campus, like YAF, should stop doing so. We will review our security measures to ensure the safety of our students, speakers, and staff. This will likely mean that we will change venues and security measures for many of our events.
But we will not stop. Doing so would mean that the evil assassin who did this wins. He must not win. The best way to honor Charlie’s life is to continue his work.
Continue to pray for Charlie’s family and friends. And pray for America.
Sincerely,
Scott Walker
President, Young America’s Foundation
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