Almost a year after the assassination of Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk on a Utah college campus, Republican strategists and Trump administration insiders say his absence is being acutely felt as the party heads into the midterm elections. Friends and colleagues describe Kirk as an irreplaceable figure whose rapport with young voters, social media savvy and fundraising network were central to mobilising conservative youth and helping Donald Trump win back the White House in 2024.

With the midterms just 54 days away, Republicans face weakening poll numbers and prediction markets currently give Democrats an 85 per cent chance of retaking the House, while the Senate remains close with the GOP given a 52 per cent chance of holding control. Colleagues praised Kirk's unique combination of political skill, charisma and an extensive donor and grassroots network, saying Turning Point USA remains a vital tool for voter registration and youth outreach, though several insiders stressed that his personal influence cannot be replicated.