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Utah Governor Alleges Charlie Kirk Shooting Suspect Is in a Romantic Relationship with a Trans Woman
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On September 12, 2025, Utah Governor Spencer Cox addressed the press in the wake of the arrest of Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect charged with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Cox described the killing as a “political assassination and an attack not just on one person, but on democratic values,” and urged Americans to reject political violence, end divisive rhetoric, and seek healing in a polarized time.
Cox provided a detailed account of the investigation, including how Robinson was apprehended after a family member contacted law enforcement with information about his possible involvement. Surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and public tips played a role in the arrest. Cox claimed that Robinson was in a relationship with "a romantic partner" he said was "a male transitioning to female,” and said the alleged partner "has been very cooperative with authorities," in contrast to Robinson, who, Cox said, has not been cooperative. Moreover, Cox said, Robinson's alleged romantic partner was "shocked" by Kirk's slaying.
The governor also warned against the dangers of social media amplifying hate and misinformation, calling it “a cancer on our society."
"The Republican politician’s comments came four days after Kirk–a critic of gay and transgender rights–was shot to death from a distance with a rifle during an event at Utah Valley University shortly after asserting that 'too many' trans people had committed mass shootings in the US," The Guardian reported.
"In reality, according to what the nonpartisan Gun Violence Archive said to NBC News, only about a tenth of 1% of such cases over the previous decade have allegedly been carried out by trans people," the Guardian noted.
As Governor Cox urged the public to “choose kindness in a time of high political tension,” queer groups have echoed his call for unity and civility, while also demanding accuracy and fairness in coverage.
The high-profile arrest and ensuing public debate have highlighted the intersection of political violence and queer rights in the United States. Governor Cox’s remarks included a call to reject the “culture of division” and to focus on shared democratic values. He cautioned that violence is the responsibility of the individual involved and that the broader community should respond with “vigils, not violence” .
Transgender advocates emphasize that moments of national crisis often expose the vulnerabilities of marginalized groups and underscore the need for inclusive, evidence-based reporting.
Governor Cox concluded his public statements by expressing hope for a more civil and compassionate society, reminding Utahns and the nation that “these are very tragic circumstances that impact all of us,” and calling for a collective effort to “find an off-ramp from hate” .
