Both Democrat and Republican leaders condemned the killing of the Turning Point USA co-founder, calling it a horrible day in American history.

“We’ve lost someone today who I think was truly a leader in our country with a really great future," CT Republican party chair Ben Proto says, "and it was cut short because someone just didn’t like his opinion."

Sen. Richard Blumental says there's a mix of sadness and anger.

"Political violence of any kind is abhorrent," Sen. Blumenthal says. "It has no place in our great country."

Kirk spoke at the University of Connecticut back in 2019, sparking heated debates on-campus.

While the 31-year-old may not have agreed with everyone, State Sen. Ryan Fazio says Kirk always felt it was important for people to express their opinions and have a dialogue.

“I think we need more of that in our country," Sen. Fazio says. "I think we need to bring people who disagree together and have an understanding that we can learn from each other, we can disagree."

State leaders are calling for an end to political violence.

"People don’t want to engage in debate and discussion," Proto says. "It’s a very sad place for America to be in."

President Trump has ordered all flags to be lowered to half-staff on Thursday.

Kirk is survived by his wife and two young children.