Elon Musk has said he no longer feels safe appearing in public, pointing to rising security concerns following the broad-daylight assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Speaking on The Katie Miller Podcast, Musk revealed that he cannot remember the last time he performed an ordinary errand, such as visiting a grocery store or pharmacy. “These days, particularly in light of Charlie Kirk’s murder, there are serious security issues,” Musk said.
“It’s not that I don’t want to. I simply can’t. It (Charlie’s assassination) has reinforced the severity of the situation, where, life is on hardcore mode. You make one mistake, you’re dead. It only takes one mistake.”
Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot in the neck by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, in an attack captured in viral videos. Robinson has been charged with first-degree murder and could face the death penalty by firing squad if convicted.
Investigators say he fired a single bullet from a rooftop, hitting Kirk as he interacted with attendees at Utah Valley University. Additional charges include obstruction of justice and witness tampering, with prosecutors alleging he told his roommate to remain silent.
Kirk, 31, was a father of two and a prominent conservative voice with large followings on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. His content often centred on right-wing political issues, including opposition to transgender rights. His killing deepened political divisions across the country.
US President Donald Trump posthumously awarded Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Thousands attended the funeral, including Musk and Trump.
Musk: Public life feels “dangerous” after Kirk’s assassination
Musk addressed Kirk’s death again in the December 9 podcast episode, saying he avoids public events not because he seeks privacy, but because the risks have become too severe.
“There are serious security issues,” he said. Making public appearances, he added, now feels like living in “hardcore mode.”
A symbolic presence at Kirk’s memorial
Despite his fears, Musk attended Kirk’s memorial in Arizona on September 21. There, he described Kirk as a powerful communicator whose “message made a difference” and suggested that this impact made him a target.
Three days after the killing, Musk also discussed the incident with activist Tommy Robinson, describing it as a sign of “extreme political tension.” His comments went viral across platforms.
Musk has encouraged continued support for Turning Point USA, saying the organisation will carry forward Kirk’s mission.
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