What is Turning Point USA?

Answer: Founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA (TPUSA) is an organization dedicated to promoting conservative youth activism on high school and college campuses. According to TPUSA's website, its mission is to "identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government."

The organization has rapidly grown to become one of the fastest-growing youth organizations in the U.S., boasting a presence on over 3,500 campuses across all 50 states.

Turning Point staff members engage in face-to-face conversations on campuses, distribute educational materials, register new activists, and host campus events.

Over the years, Turning Point has received support from multiple donors who have helped fund its mission. Notable donors include the Marcus Foundation, Ed Uihlein Family Foundation, Deason Foundation, Dunn Foundation, Bradley Impact Fund and Thomas W. Smith Foundation.

Republican and conservative leaders such as President Donald Trump, Nikki Haley, Mike Pence and other GOP figures have made appearances at TPUSA events over the years.

Answer: Charlie Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA with Bill Montgomery. Instead of pursuing a college career, Kirk was encouraged by Montgomery to follow his passion for political activism. Foster Friess provided initial financial support for the organization.

Before his assassination on Sept. 10, 2025, Kirk conducted annual tours of college campuses nationwide, engaging in debates in the "prove me wrong" style that has become synonymous with his former debating methods. He shared his content on TikTok and other social media platforms to further engage with audiences.

Answer: Following Charlie Kirk’s tragic death on Sept. 10, 2025, while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University, TPUSA appointed his widow, Erika Kirk, as the new CEO and chair of the Board for Turning Point USA.

"In prior discussions, Charlie expressed to multiple executives that this is what he wanted in the event of his death," the organization said in a post on X.

"It was the honor of our lives to serve as board members at Charlie's side," Turning Point USA's current board said in a statement released on Sept. 18, 2025. "Charlie prepared all of us for a moment like this one. He worked tirelessly to ensure Turning Point USA was built to survive even the greatest tests. And now, it's our great pride to announce Erika Kirk as the new CEO and Chair of the Board for Turning Point USA."

Answer: Turning Point USA's headquarters is located in Phoenix, Arizona. As of Fall 2025, TPUSA employs over 350 full- and part-time staff dedicated to recruiting new activists, registering voters and developing leaders within the conservative movement in their communities.