Tribute to late Charlie Kirk illuminates division in Kansas politics on meaning of free speech

Republicans and Democrats in Kansas Legislature take bright-line approach to questions about Charlie Kirk's use of 1st Amendment right to speech.

By: Tim Carpenter

Outlets: Kansas Reflector

Published: February 15, 2026

Words: 757

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

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TOPEKA — The insistence by Republicans in the Kansas Legislature to honor the late activist and media personality Charlie Kirk gave rise to loud partisan outcries among Democrats.

While members of both parties shared reverence for the constitutional right to free speech and loathing of political violence, Kirk’s use of the First Amendment led to deep division about how his opinions ought to be interpreted. The GOP-led Senate and House passed Senate Concurrent …

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