REP. PATTERSON ANNOUNCES “CHARLIE KIRK ACT” TO COMBAT POLITICAL VIOLENCE

(Austin, TX) – One year ago tomorrow, Charlie Kirk was assassinated for doing what Americans have done since the founding of our nation: speaking openly about his beliefs, challenging opposing ideas, and engaging his fellow citizens in political debate. His horrific murder shocked the nation and demonstrated in the most tragic way what can happen when political disagreement gives way to political violence.

Charlie’s assassination was not an isolated act. From the shooting of Congressman Steve Scalise and his colleagues at a congressional baseball practice, to assassination attempts against President Donald Trump, to the murder and attempted murder of elected officials and political figures across the country, Americans have witnessed an alarming pattern of political differences escalating into violence. We cannot allow assassination and political violence to replace debate in America

Today, State Representative Jared Patterson announced plans to file the “Charlie Kirk Act” in the 90th Texas Legislature to ensure Texas law treats politically motivated murder with the severity it deserves. The legislation would amend Section 19.03 of the Texas Penal Code to make murder committed in furtherance of political violence a capital murder offense.

“Charlie Kirk believed political disagreements should be fought with ideas, debate, and more speech—not violence,” said Rep. Patterson. “The Charlie Kirk Act will honor Charlie’s life and legacy by ensuring those who use murder as a weapon to advance a political cause face the most serious consequences available under Texas law. Regardless of the victim or political ideology, violence can never become an acceptable substitute for debate in America.”

State Representative Jared Patterson is serving his fourth term representing House District 106 in Denton County. Patterson is Chairman of the Local & Consent Calendars Committee and serves on the House Committees on Licensing & Administrative Procedures, Transportation, and the Subcommittee on Transportation Funding. He is the Chair of the ONE DFW Legislative Caucus and resides in Frisco with his wife, three children, and family dog