GRAND FORKS COUNTY (trfnews.i234.me) — A Turning Point USA event at the University of North Dakota’s Chester Fritz Auditorium drew heavy police presence and emotional reactions from students on Thursday evening.
The conservative student organization, Turning Point USA — founded by the late Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed last month — hosted the event featuring speaker Glenn Beck. The group says its mission is to “identify, educate, and train students to promote the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited government.”
Turning Point USA maintains chapters at more than 800 campuses across the U.S. It is known for its vocal support of the NRA and fossil fuels, and for its opposition to political movements such as Black Lives Matter. The organization’s events often draw both supporters and critics, and local authorities anticipated a large turnout in Grand Forks.
Law enforcement from the Grand Forks Police Department maintained a visible presence outside the Chester Fritz Auditorium, including an armored vehicle stationed near the venue. Officers confirmed an increased security plan was in place to ensure public safety during the event.
Students attending the gathering described the evening as both emotional and inspiring following Kirk’s death.
“I’m grateful to be here to see Glenn Beck,” said one attendee, Autumn. “It’s devastating what happened to Charlie Kirk. He was a martyr for his faith and guided us toward Christ.”
Another student, Na Arnot, shared similar sentiments. “We came because it’s important to show up after Charlie Kirk died. We attended his memorial in Fargo, and we believe in his message about standing for freedom and having open discussions rather than using force.”
Her sister added, “Charlie Kirk showed that Christians should be involved in politics because our morals are shaped by faith. If we can’t live our morals in politics, we aren’t walking in faith.”
The event began at 5 p.m., with hundreds expected to attend. Police reported no incidents as of late Thursday evening.
For more on Turning Point USA’s national activities and campus outreach, visit Turning Point USA.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
