Charlie Kirk’s name joins the litany of those associated with an American history of violence

analysis

Right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk speaks before he is shot dead on Wednesday during a visit to Utah Valley University.

A huge swath of the American people – especially liberals, Democrats and voters over the age of 50 – had no idea until Wednesday night who Charlie Kirk was. But all Americans know what his death in Orem, Utah, means.

Yet another example of political violence. Recriminations. Renewed debate over gun control. A surge of conservative anger. Maybe conspiracy theories.

Mr. Kirk, slain a month short of turning 32, was the co-founder, executive director, and public face of Turning Point USA. He was a prominent figure on the right of American politics, an ardent supporter of Donald Trump, an activist who pumped fresh energy into the movement of religious conservativ