South Carolina House Approves 'Charlie Kirk Memorial Highway' Resolution

The measure now heads to the state Senate after a divided vote in the House.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The South Carolina House of Representatives has voted 75-31 to adopt a resolution requesting the Department of Transportation to place signs along a stretch of U.S. Route 76 honoring the late Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA. The resolution now moves to the state Senate for consideration.

Why it matters

The decision to name a highway after Charlie Kirk has sparked controversy, with some Democratic lawmakers questioning whether Kirk's record and rhetoric make him an appropriate figure to honor. The debate highlights ongoing tensions around political polarization and the recognition of public figures.

The details

The resolution calls for the highway section from the Laurens County and Greenville County line to SC Highway 101 to be designated as the 'Charlie Kirk Memorial Highway.' Kirk, who was killed in an act of violence at Utah Valley University in 2025, is described in the resolution as a prominent voice for free speech, limited government and 'civil discussion and debate.' However, some Democratic lawmakers have objected, reading Kirk's past statements into the record and arguing they were 'divisive and hurtful to marginalized communities.' Republicans have defended the designation as a stand against political violence and a recognition of Kirk's influence among young conservatives.

  • The House adopted the resolution on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • Kirk was killed on September 10, 2025 in an act of violence at Utah Valley University.

The players

Charlie Kirk

The late founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA, who is described in the resolution as a prominent voice for free speech, limited government and 'civil discussion and debate.'

Gilda Cobb-Hunter

A Democratic state representative who objected to the resolution, questioning whether Kirk's record made him an appropriate figure to honor.

Hamilton Grant

A Democratic state representative who read several of Kirk's past statements into the record, calling them 'divisive and hurtful to marginalized communities.'

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What’s next

The resolution will now be considered by the South Carolina Senate.

The takeaway

The decision to name a highway after Charlie Kirk has sparked a divisive debate in South Carolina, highlighting the ongoing tensions around political polarization and the recognition of public figures. The controversy underscores the need for thoughtful consideration of how to honor individuals, especially those whose records and rhetoric have been seen as divisive by some.