US President Donald Trump’s ally and conservative activist Charlie Kirk died on Wednesday after being shot in the neck while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University. At 31, Kirk’s net worth was estimated at around $12 million.
As the co-founder and chief executive of Turning Point USA, he grew what started as a small campus initiative into one of the most recognised groups in conservative politics. His lifestyle included luxury trips, a Spanish-style mansion, and several high-value properties, according to the Associated Press.
An AP review of Turning Point’s finances and public records reveals the organisation has raised about a quarter-billion dollars since it launched, making its leaders wealthy. Kirk’s salary increased to more than $407,000 by 2021 from $27,000 in 2016. He owned three expensive properties: a $4.75 million estate near Phoenix, a beachside condominium on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and a nearby apartment.
In 2012, Kirk and Tea Party activist William Montgomery founded Turning Point in suburban Chicago, when Kirk was just 18. The organisation initially faced hurdles, but after 2016, when Kirk aligned himself closely with Trump and backed his presidential campaign, it began to grow. Public tax filings show contributions eventually swelled to $79.2 million in 2022.
In 2021, Kirk and his wife Erika Frantzve had their wedding reception at a luxury hotel in Scottsdale, an event that Turning Point also used to raise funds.
Kirk also earned money from his podcast, radio show, and speaking engagements, though the group said he got a boost from the platform Turning Point offered.
ALSO READ: Who Was Charlie Kirk? Trump Loyalist, Campus Activist And Youth Leader Killed At Utah Rally
