Washington, D.C. — In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s tragic assassination earlier this month, a pair of House Republicans are proposing a bill to honor the conservative activist by having his likeness featured on U.S. currency. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee, and Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) have announced plans to introduce a bill later this week that would direct the U.S. Treasury to mint 400,000 silver dollar coins with Kirk’s image.
What Happened
Kirk, a prominent conservative figure, was shot and killed during a speaking engagement at a college campus in Utah earlier this month. The bill to create commemorative coins bearing his image is part of a larger effort by Republican lawmakers to honor his life and legacy. These coins would be minted as legal tender and feature Kirk’s likeness on one side, with the words “well done, good and faithful servant” and his full name, Charles James Kirk, inscribed on the other. The coins would also include the year 2026 and the U.S. motto.
The final design of the coin would be selected by the Treasury Secretary, in consultation with the sitting president, Donald Trump.
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk, 31, was the founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth advocacy group. He was known for his passionate activism, focusing on promoting conservative values among young Americans. Kirk’s untimely death has sparked an outpouring of grief and recognition from Republican lawmakers, who see him as a patriot who dedicated his life to shaping the future of the nation. In his statement, Rep. Hamadeh called Kirk an “American treasure” and praised his tireless sacrifices for the country’s future generations.
What Happens Next
If the bill passes, Kirk would become the youngest-ever American to be depicted on U.S. currency, a distinction that Pfluger called a “fitting honor” that would cement his legacy alongside presidents and founding fathers. However, a law passed in 1866 prohibits the image of a living person from being used on U.S. currency, which would necessitate exceptions for figures such as Kirk.
In addition to the coin proposal, Republican lawmakers have also introduced other initiatives to honor Kirk, including legislation to award him congressional medals and designate a day of remembrance in his honor. A bipartisan resolution was passed by the House last week to denounce political violence and honor Kirk’s memory.
Moreover, several House Republicans have written to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) to propose a statue of Kirk at the U.S. Capitol, further cementing his place in American history.
What Happens Next
While the coin proposal is still in its early stages, it adds to the growing list of efforts to commemorate Kirk’s life and the impact he had on the conservative movement. The push for a statue and other honors signifies the strong support Kirk had among Republican lawmakers, as well as the deep sense of loss following his untimely death.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
