Turning Point USA, a prominent conservative organization, has found itself in the midst of a significant internal conflict. Candace Owens, a well-known conservative commentator and former communications director for the group, has made explosive allegations suggesting betrayal within the organization related to the death of its founder, Charlie Kirk. This has led to a wave of controversy that is now dividing its supporters and activists.
The dispute came to light when Tim Pool, a journalist and commentator, spoke to the Daily Mail about the escalating situation. Pool noted that the narrative has been gaining momentum for weeks and felt compelled to address it publicly due to its impact on Turning Point USA's staff and its base. According to Pool, young men had approached him with questions about rumors that Owens had unearthed an assassination plot connected to foreign operatives, a story that he believes has been distorted by the internet.
Owens, taking to her platform after the Thanksgiving break, stated with "full confidence" that Kirk had been betrayed and called on donors to the organization to ask for refunds. "I am making a personal plea to every well-meaning person who donated to this Godforsaken organization to request a refund," Owens declared. "You were lied to. And leadership knew." Pool criticized Owens' statement, suggesting that it crossed a line by implying that Turning Point's leadership was aware of betrayal related to Kirk's death.
The Daily Mail reported that in response to Owens' allegations, the staff at Turning Point USA publicly challenged her to appear on The Charlie Kirk Show to present her claims face-to-face, offering her a platform to lay out her allegations on record. During a live reading of her statements, producers invited Owens to defend them in person in Phoenix.
Producer Blake Neff described the situation as serious and not to be taken lightly. He highlighted the aggressive targeting of Turning Point employees by Owens' supporters, labeling the actions as "evil." Some insiders within the organization expressed concern that publicly confronting Owens could exacerbate the feud, considering her significant influence and dedicated following.
Despite attempts by Turning Point USA to contact Owens privately in hopes of deescalating the situation, there was no response. Owens accepted the public challenge, labeling it a "major win" and offered to debate the issues at any time, later proposing a remote appearance rather than traveling to Phoenix. Neff announced a livestream set for December 15, where Kirk's friends will respond to each allegation, extending another invitation to Owens to join.
As the organization braces for a public clash, Owens has informed her audience that she will persist with her investigation and address the controversy on her platform. The impending confrontation has the potential to reshape not only the future of Turning Point USA but also the legacy of its late founder, Charlie Kirk.
