Danica Patrick reacts to Charlie Kirk assassination with a heartfelt tribute, following the fatal shooting of Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) event. The death of Kirk, a significant conservative figure and founder of TPUSA, has elicited a wave of responses from across the political spectrum, including Patrick, whose message added emotional depth to the public mourning.
Conservative Leader’s Death Shocks Political Community
Charlie Kirk, recognized for establishing Turning Point USA in 2012, was deeply engaged in promoting conservative values among students in high schools and universities. His advocacy work made him a prominent name in Republican circles, and his life was cut short at a public TPUSA event by an as yet unidentified shooter. Kirk’s assassination drew international attention and condemnation, with Republican leaders and supporters expressing their grief and appreciation for his work. At 31 years old, Kirk had already left a lasting imprint on conservative youth politics.
Danica Patrick Shares Personal Loss and Admiration
Danica Patrick, known for her achievements in motorsports as the only woman to win an IndyCar race and as a trailblazer in NASCAR, has more recently become visible for her political stances, particularly her support of Donald Trump’s campaign efforts for the 2024 Presidential Elections. Following Kirk’s death, Patrick released a public tribute on social media outlining the depth of her respect and gratitude for Kirk’s influence on her own political journey.
“[Charlie Kirk] was a great American, husband, father, leader, man of faith, business man, boss, speaker, and inspiration to millions. His mission to bring conservative values into high schools and colleges helped make being a republican cool again in the youth. He was able to take a rally and turn it into a high energy fun party! He was able to take his vision and passion and turn it into reality,”
she wrote on Instagram. —Danica Patrick, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver
“God, please help us. And maybe I could also say… Charlie, help us from heaven… as his energy for gods work never seemed to run out.”
—Danica Patrick, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver
Charlie Kirk’s Influence on Danica Patrick’s Political Awareness
For Patrick, the connection to Kirk was deeply personal and transformative. Having described herself as previously uninterested in politics and largely disconnected from news since 2018, Patrick credited Kirk’s outreach and events with changing her perspective. In a media interview earlier this year, she elaborated on how Kirk was instrumental in shaping her path into political activity.
“I didn’t know who Charlie Kirk was. I never paid attention to politics and quite specially have been avoiding the news since 2018,”
she said. —Danica Patrick, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver
After attending one of Kirk’s events, Patrick found herself sharing patriotic sentiments online, even as they sparked controversy among her followers. This initial experience became a catalyst, leading her to appearances on major media programs such as Tucker Carlson’s show, further solidifying her engagement with public political discourse and activism.
“After going to that event, I posted some photos of my sister and I. It [her post] said, ‘I love this country.’ That was a divisive comment to so many, which was ridiculous. I then met Tucker Carlson and went on his show in the beginning of January. I came back from Florida and Charlie reached out to go on his show. I was like, ‘Well, I guess I’m in politics now.’”
—Danica Patrick, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver
Patrick’s Ongoing Engagement in Conservative Politics
Since her introduction to politics through Charlie Kirk and subsequent involvement in media and campaign events, Patrick has developed a significant presence within Republican circles. She maintains active engagement on social media, sharing her views with over a million followers and continuing to promote conservative ideals aligned with those of Kirk, Donald Trump, and TPUSA.
Kirk’s assassination has reverberated within both political and motorsports communities, highlighting the unexpected paths individuals may take through personal connections and shared causes. As Patrick and other public figures continue to honor Kirk’s contributions, the impact of his life and untimely death is likely to shape political and social discourse among conservative youth and beyond for the foreseeable future.
