Montana GOP Rep. Ryan Zinke called the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk a “watershed moment” and urged Americans to reject political violence and engage in civil dialogue. He echoed Utah Governor Spencer Cox’s warning that America is at a crossroads: continue down a path of anger, or choose restraint and common discourse.
He emphasized that disagreement in politics must never escalate into violence. “In our country, the strength is that … we may agree or disagree, but disagreement should never result in violence,” Zinke said.
He pointed out that the nature of political discourse has deteriorated in recent years, citing not only the Kirk tragedy but also other recent acts of political violence across the U.S.
Zinke’s message comes amid increasing concern among conservatives and Christians that free speech and spiritual convictions are under threat from polarizing rhetoric. He framed this moment as one demanding reflection
