The political sphere is in mourning following the tragic death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot at a Utah speaking event. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, a friend of Kirk, shared a heartfelt tribute, highlighting their shared faith and values. Butker recalled Kirk’s support during criticism of his commencement speech.
Harrison Butker’s emotional tribute after Charlie Kirk’s tragic death (Getty Images)
Harrison Butker honors Charlie Kirk with faith-filled message
Butker and Kirk shared a bond rooted in their support for former President Donald Trump and a shared commitment to faith. The 30-year-old kicker posted on X, “Thank you for your strong witness for Christ @charliekirk11. Thank you for pursuing truth and leading your family as a husband and father… May their soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
The message wasn’t just a formality—it was layered with history. Butker also revealed a private exchange from October where Kirk had sent him Philippians 3:14: “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ.” Butker’s reply was simple but powerful: “On the mission. Thank you.”
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Kirk had publicly defended Butker in 2024 when the kicker’s commencement speech at Benedictine College went viral.
In that speech, Butker praised his wife as “a homemaker,” a comment that drew sharp backlash. Kirk, however, stood firmly by him, writing, “I stand with Harrison Butker.”
Tributes pour in across sports and politics
Butker wasn’t alone in mourning. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt’s daughter, Gracie Hunt, reposted his message and offered prayers for Kirk’s widow Erika and their children, reminding followers that “Jesus wins in the end—even in the face of pure evil.”
Even outside conservative circles, there was acknowledgment of the tragedy. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson called out those celebrating Kirk’s death, writing, “Celebrating the death of someone you don’t share the same beliefs as is wild. Seeing it play out in real time is disgusting.”Kirk’s death underscores the growing shadow of political violence in America—a reminder that, despite deep divides, loss should never become a cause for celebration.