BERKELEY, Calif. — Conservative youth organization Turning Point USA (TPUSA) held the final stop of its nationwide “American Comeback” campus tour Monday evening at University of California, Berkeley’s Zellerbach Hall, marking roughly two months since the death of the group’s founder, Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot at an earlier campus event.
The event drew hundreds of attendees inside the hall, while outside, hundreds of protesters gathered hours in advance, chanting slogans and holding signs opposing TPUSA’s presence on campus.
Inside the Event
Speakers including comedian and actor Rob Schneider and Christian author Frank Turek addressed the crowd in an event described by some media outlets as “part revival meeting, part political rally.”
Some attendees reported feeling intimidated by campus culture surrounding the event. CBS News quoted one supporter, Grace Fortune, saying she received “dirty looks” for wearing a T-shirt referencing her faith and Charlie Kirk.
Outside Tensions and Arrests
Outside Zellerbach Hall, protesters and counter-protesters clashed. Video footage and multiple reports show fights breaking out, smoke bombs or fireworks being used, and a heavy police presence including helicopters and riot gear.
At least three arrests were reported during the demonstrations. One incident captured a man selling “Freedom” shirts being involved in a physical altercation and later escorted away with a bloody face.
Security officials said that due to the large crowd and confrontations, the venue’s entrance queue was moved further down the block for safety reasons. Tickets for the event were reportedly sold out.
Legacy and Context
The event serves both as the capstone of TPUSA’s tour and a memorial to Charlie Kirk, whose fatal shooting at a Utah college campus in September jolted conservative campus activism. TPUSA has cited the tour stop at Berkeley as an opportunity to continue his legacy.
The tension between free-speech advocates and campus protest culture surfaced strongly. Protesters criticized TPUSA for what they called “intimidation” and called for the event not be held on campus. TPUSA supporters argued they were exercising their First Amendment rights and championing conservative voices on campus.
University and Campus Response
The University of California, Berkeley confirmed the protest was organized by a group unaffiliated with official student organizations. The campus emphasized its commitment to allowing student groups to host speakers while also ensuring safety and security during events.
What’s Next
TPUSA said it plans to continue campus events despite the controversy. Meanwhile, UC Berkeley officials say they will review security measures and event management in the wake of the November 10 gathering.
