Analysis: Why Charlie Kirk’s killing could embolden more political violence Politics Sep 14, 2025 1:54 PM EDT

The fatal shooting of prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, 2025, has brought renewed attention to the climate of political violence in America. Kirk’s death reflects a sizable increase in threats against officeholders and politicians at the local and federal level.

Alfonso Serrano, a politics editor at The Conversation, spoke with University of Massachusetts Lowell scholar Arie Perliger after Kirk’s shooting. Perliger studies political violence and assassinations and spoke bluntly about political polarization in the United States.

ALFONSO SERRANO: What were your initial thoughts after Charlie Kirk’s fatal shooting?

ARIE PERLIGER: It was a bit unusual

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