Salem Issues Statements on Charlie Kirk’s Slaying
In the hours after media personality, political activist, and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, Salem Media Group issued a number of statements from its executives. The company called Kirk’s killing “a cowardly and vile act of violence, carried out to silence one of America’s boldest Christian conservative voices. Our hearts are shattered for Charlie’s wife, family, friends, colleagues,
and the countless people whose lives he touched through his words, his work, and his unwavering commitment to faith and country.” Salem CEO David Santrella is quoted saying, “Charlie was more than a broadcaster – he was a fearless defender of truth and a faithful servant of God. This assassination was not just an attack on Charlie, it was an attack on free speech and on the values Charlie championed every day. His absence leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy of faith, courage, and conviction will continue to inspire generations.” Salem Media chief strategy officer Bradley Parscale stated, “I have had the privilege of working with Charlie for nearly a decade. He was part of the Salem family. His voice was fearless, unyielding, and relentless in the defense of faith and freedom. This heinous act of evil was meant to silence him, but as Christians, we know darkness cannot overcome the light. Charlie’s influence cannot and will not be silenced.” The company added, “Charlie’s partnership with Salem Media was defined by his uncompromising defense of biblical values, liberty, and truth. Through his nationally syndicated show and podcast, he reached millions who relied on his voice to cut through lies, honor truth, and give courage to those fighting for faith and freedom.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the time to issue a statement on Kirk’s death, saying, “Charlie Kirk was murdered for speaking truth and defending freedom. A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought the lies and stood tall for Judeo-Christian civilization. I spoke to him only two weeks ago and invited him to Israel. Sadly, that visit will not take place. We lost an incredible human being. His boundless pride in America and his valiant belief in free speech will leave a lasting impact. Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk.”
Salem is also announcing that today (9/11) it will broadcast a special two-hour tribute to Charlie Kirk in what was his 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm ET daypart. The program will be co-hosted by Kirk’s colleagues, SRN host Mike Gallagher and KSKY-AM, Dallas “660AM The ANSWER” talk radio host Mark Davis.
Radio personality, talk host, and voiceover performer Mark Wainwright writes today (2/9) in a piece for TALKERS magazine about the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” on February 9, 1964. He writes, “In early December 1963, America was a very gloomy place. The assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22 brought the country to a virtual standstill for four days, and the emotional and psychological hangover lingered for weeks. The nation needed a dose of uplifting energy and fun, and the Beatles were the ideal remedy.” As he notes, the arrival of The Beatles in America and their appearance on the popular Sunday night TV show “changed everything.”