President Donald Trump announced that conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously, honoring his legacy and influence on American politics.

“I am pleased to announce that I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk, posthumously, the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” Trump said.

Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in Utah earlier this week, sparking nationwide grief and debate. His death has been widely described as a targeted political assassination, fueling calls for accountability and justice.

The announcement follows appeals from conservative leaders and outlets, including The Western Journal, urging Trump to recognize Kirk’s contributions with the nation’s highest civilian honor.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made “especially meritorious contributions” to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural and public endeavors. By granting Kirk this distinction, Trump highlighted both his impact on the conservative movement and the broader political climate surrounding his passing.