Charlie Kirk Was Shot a Year Ago. The Conspiracy Theories Are More Rampant Than Ever

One year has passed since Charlie Kirk's death, and conspiracy theories surrounding the shooting have remained prevalent, amplified by social media algorithms and right-wing influencers such as Candace Owens. Experts anticipate these theories will persist, stating, "There's no reason to believe conspiracy theories about Kirk’s murder will lose steam anytime soon."

Jared Holt, a senior researcher at Open Measures, predicts they may even intensify during Tyler Robinson's trial. The initial theories ranged from false flag operations to staging, AI gun involvement, and even claims of Kirk's survival. However, the most pervasive narrative was that someone close to Kirk, possibly linked to Israel, was responsible, with Robinson being a scapegoat who died due to an exploding microphone.

This theory has been a cornerstone of Owens' conspiracy theory campaign, which has garnered hundreds of millions of views. Social media platforms have allowed conspiracy theories to thrive, with Owens and others capitalizing on the speculation to attract and monetize new audiences. The theories have led to real-world consequences, including a surge in death threats against Kirk's wife, Erika Kirk.

Despite calls from her and Turning Point USA for Owens and others to cease spreading baseless rumors, the conspiracy theories continue to gain traction. Turning Point USA believes the theories' reach and potency have diminished but expects them to persist for the foreseeable future. However, some experts argue that conspiratorial thinking is a long-standing aspect of American life, citing the majority of Americans who believed JFK's assassination was a conspiracy in the 1970s.