SEN. STEVE RAWLINGS AND REP. TJ ROBERTS ANNOUNCE PLAN TO FILE BILL HONORING CHARLIE KIRK
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 14, 2025) — Sen. Steve Rawlings, R-Burlington, announced his intention to file a bill on the first day of the 2026 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk and designate October 14 as “Charlie Kirk Day” in the commonwealth. Rawlings will be joined in this effort by Rep. TJ Roberts, R-Burlington, who plans to introduce companion legislation in the House.
Born on Oct. 14, 1993, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Kirk became the preeminent voice of a generation, inspiring millions of young Americans to engage in civic discourse, champion conservative principles, and reclaim the foundational values of faith, family, liberty, limited government, and individual responsibility. Though his life was tragically cut short on September 10, his message continues to motivate a movement dedicated to preserving America’s founding ideals.
A tireless free speech advocate, Kirk fought against suppression by technology companies, university indoctrination, and government overreach, ensuring that dissenting voices, especially those of the next generation, could be heard in the public square. Through his efforts, he helped preserve the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States as the bedrock of a free society.
“Charlie Kirk dedicated his life to ensuring that every American could speak freely and think boldly,” said Rawlings. “Even after his passing, his influence will continue to be felt through the countless young people he inspired and the enduring strength of the ideas he championed.”
Rawlings said the planned bill will serve as a tribute to Kirk’s lifelong work defending free expression and advancing the conservative cause.
Rep. Roberts echoed those sentiments, saying, “Charlie Kirk challenged us to defend the liberties our founders enshrined. He was particularly resolved to do so to approach every conversation as an opportunity, even when it was difficult, when voices were silenced, or when disagreement hardened into hatred or distrust. We want this day to serve not only as a commemoration of his life, but as a renewed commitment to uphold respectful dialogue, courage in the face of adversity, and the conviction that faith and truth endure.”
“Charlie Kirk’s legacy reminds us that free speech and faith in one’s convictions are the cornerstones of a free society,” Rawlings added. “It’s only fitting that Kentucky recognize his impact and lasting contributions to our nation’s civic life.”
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Sen. Steve Rawlings, R-Burlington, represents the 11th Senate District in northern and central Boone County. He serves as co-chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Education and also serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Appropriations and Revenue; Banking and Insurance; Education; Health Services; Local Government; and State Government. Additionally, he is a member of the Capital Planning Advisory Board and the 2026–2028 Budget Preparation and Submission Statutory Committee.