Utah Gov. Cox Urges US to Reject Political Violence After Kirk Assassination

Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox delivered an emotional appeal urging Americans to reject political violence and seek unity. Cox described the killing as a political assassination and a broader attack on American ideals, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and civil discourse. He warned that political violence is self-perpetuating and called on all Americans, especially young people, to find an "off-ramp" to avoid further escalation. Cox criticized the role of social media in spreading violent imagery and encouraged people to engage in difficult conversations that embrace differences. He expressed deep personal sadness and anger but urged the nation to choose a path of moral clarity and dialogue to prevent worsening division. Cox framed this moment as a potential turning point in U.S. history, stressing that the country’s future depends on collective decisions to de-escalate tensions.