At just 18 committed Christian and college drop out Charlie Kirk established Turning Point USA, an organisation with a mission to spread conservative ideals at liberal-leaning US universities.

On Wednesday, now aged 31 and a father of two young children, Kirk was once again at a university campus to debate and spread his socially conservative viewpoint.

A roof-top sniper shot him dead in what is being viewed as a politically motivated assassination.

In those 13 years, the young man had become one of the most influential voices in US politics and well-known media personality.

Kirk’s ability to galvanise young people to vote Republican, through his rallies, prolific social media posts, daily podcast, TV appearances and website led to Donald Trump crediting him with being one of a handful of people who helped secure his 2024 election win.

His murder, captured on camera, has shocked the United States and the reaction from the president and his supporters has been quick and heartfelt.

But who was he and how did he become one of Trump’s most avid supporters and trusted confidants?

Irish Times Washington correspondent Keith Duggan explains.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon. 

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