Scientologists Reportedly 'Cultivated' Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk

Revelations about Scientology's ties to the late conservative activist raise concerns about the group's influence in politics.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 3:55pm

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According to a report from author and Scientology expert Tony Ortega, the late Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA, had been "cultivated" by higher-ups in the Church of Scientology for years and received millions in funding from Scientology donors.

Why it matters

This revelation raises questions about the extent of Scientology's influence in conservative political circles, particularly given Turning Point USA's prominent role in the MAGA movement and its connections to the Trump administration.

The details

Ortega's report cites evidence that Kirk had been targeted for recruitment by Scientology, including an interview with Scientology mega-donor Tom Cummins admitting to giving "millions of dollars" to Turning Point USA. Another Scientologist, Craig Jensen, claimed to have hosted Kirk at the organization's Clearwater, Florida headquarters and provided him with Scientology literature, which Kirk reportedly said "saved his life." Jensen also stated that he was on Turning Point USA's advisory board.

  • In 2016, one year after Trump was elected, Jensen wrote about introducing Kirk to Scientology.
  • Ortega's report was published on February 18, 2026.

The players

Charlie Kirk

The late founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA, who was reportedly "cultivated" by the Church of Scientology.

Tony Ortega

An author and expert on the Church of Scientology, who reported on the organization's ties to Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA.

Tom Cummins

A Scientology mega-donor who admitted to giving "millions of dollars" to Turning Point USA.

Craig Jensen

A Scientologist who claimed to have hosted Kirk at the organization's Clearwater, Florida headquarters and provided him with Scientology literature.

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What they’re saying

“I've given them millions of dollars.”

— Tom Cummins, Scientology mega-donor

“I then put on an event for Charlie at my home in CW and gave him an OSA-escorted tour of the Flag building. He was blown away! I gave him a copy of the 'Causes of Suppression' booklet and he said later that it saved his life. So, yes, he knows full well I am a Scientologist and he is supportive.”

— Craig Jensen, Scientologist

What’s next

The revelations about Scientology's ties to Turning Point USA and the Trump administration are likely to spur further investigations and scrutiny of the organization's political influence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the concerning extent to which the Church of Scientology has sought to infiltrate and influence conservative political movements in the United States, raising questions about the integrity of the political process and the need for greater transparency and accountability around such connections.