Charlie Kirk was among a group of prominent conservatives linked to Longboat Key.

Key Information

• Incident: Charlie Kirk shot and killed while speaking at a college in Utah.
• Age: 31
• Location: Longboat Key resident, with primary residence in Phoenix.
• Community Reaction: U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan and other local Republicans mourn Kirk’s loss, emphasizing his impact on conservative values.

U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan expressed sadness over the shooting death of influential conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Wednesday.

Buchanan and Kirk shared not only political alignment but also geographical closeness, as Kirk resided in Longboat Key, a hub for prominent conservative figures, including Buchanan.

“Heartbreaking,” Buchanan stated. “My heart goes out to Charlie’s wife, their young kids, and everyone hurting from this tragedy. Charlie was a leader who engaged in politics the right way: face-to-face with those he disagreed with. Let his legacy stand strong against those who resort to violence.”

Kirk was shot and killed while giving a speech at a college in Utah. He was recognized as a key conservative voice who motivated young individuals to engage in politics and was a staunch ally of President Trump.

In 2019, Kirk purchased a two-bedroom condo in Longboat Key for $855,000, according to property records. It remains unclear how often he occupied the residence, as his main home is reported to be in Phoenix.

Originally from the Chicago area, Kirk hosted the Charlie Kirk Show, attracting millions of listeners through the social media platform Rumble.

Interestingly, Longboat Key serves as the headquarters of Rumble, a conservative alternative to YouTube, which relocated from Toronto in 2021. Vice President JD Vance is a notable investor in the platform.

Rumble’s services have also been utilized by Trump Media Group, which established its headquarters in Sarasota in 2022.

Chris Pavlovski, Rumble’s founder, is a resident of Siesta Key, further solidifying the area’s reputation as a conservative haven.

Local conservative figures, including Julie Jenkins Fancelli and former congresswoman Katherine Harris, are also associated with Longboat Key. Fancelli is known for her substantial financial contributions to the organizers of the January 6 riots.

Upon hearing the news, other local Republicans also expressed their condolences. U.S. Rep. Greg Steube described Kirk as “a light in times of darkness,” emphasizing his enduring courage and impact.

Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters asserted: “Charlie Kirk was a father, husband, and dedicated patriot who spent his life defending conservative values and inspiring young Americans.”

A statement from the Republican Party of Sarasota County highlighted his commitment and the cost he paid for his convictions.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Charlie Kirk among many prominent Republicans with Longboat Key ties