Candace Owens Sparks Controversy Over Charlie Kirk's Legacy
Background of the Dispute
The recent conflict ignited when Candace Owens shared what she claims are text message screenshots from the late Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically killed in September 2025 during an event at Utah Valley University. Owens utilized these purported messages to criticize Ben Shapiro, asserting that Kirk disapproved of Shapiro's treatment of individuals regarding Israel.
Meghan McCain's Reaction
Meghan McCain expressed her frustration indirectly, stating, "Stop sharing dead people's text messages, you absolute psychopaths." In response, Owens released another alleged message from Kirk, which reportedly contained a derogatory remark about McCain.
The Alleged Text
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Owens accompanied the message with a flame emoji, asserting that she would not allow the narrative of Kirk's friendship with Shapiro and other neoconservatives to persist.
Owens' Broader Critique of Shapiro
Owens' Accusations
This exchange is part of a larger confrontation that Owens has initiated against Shapiro regarding his relationship with Kirk prior to his death. On March 13th, Owens expressed her disgust upon hearing Shapiro claim he would "pick up Charlie's bloody mic," labeling it as shameless given his alleged treatment of Kirk.
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She further accused Shapiro of exerting financial and reputational pressure on Kirk, claiming that he directed Jewish donors to intimidate Kirk after her own dismissal from Daily Wire.
Kirk's Alleged Beliefs
Owens' Claims About Kirk
Owens also articulated her belief that Kirk held private views that contradicted the public persona being portrayed by those invoking his name. She stated, "Charlie Kirk did not support Ben Shapiro's treatment of people over Israel. He also did not support Talmudic Judaism in general." She expressed her frustration with Turning Point's silence on these matters, claiming Kirk had faced moral coercion for an extended period.
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Current Status of the Dispute
Where Things Stand
As of now, Shapiro has not publicly addressed Owens' recent allegations, and Turning Point USA has yet to respond to her claims regarding Kirk's private beliefs. McCain has not made any further comments following her initial post.