Key Highlights
- Vice President Vance spoke at the University of Mississippi as part of a Turning Point USA tour.
- The event was held on February 20, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
- A contentious exchange between Vance and college students highlighted various policy issues.
- Erika Kirk attended the event alongside Vance to honor her late husband Charlie Kirk’s memory.
Vice President’s Visit: A Tribute to Charlie Kirk at University of Mississippi
On February 20, 2025, Vice President Donald Vance visited the University of Mississippi as part of his ongoing efforts to honor and continue the mission of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The event was organized by Turning Point USA, an organization founded by Kirk that aims to engage with college students on a wide range of political issues.
Engaging with College Students
Vice President Vance addressed thousands of students at an arena on the university’s campus, fielding questions from attendees much like his late friend Charlie Kirk did during numerous “Prove Me Wrong” events. During one particularly contentious exchange, a student pressed Vance on several issues including his intercultural marriage, restrictive immigration policies, and their fairness to those who had gone through the process to enter the country.
Acknowledging Controversies
Despite the intensity of the questions, Vice President Vance maintained a calm demeanor. He encouraged students to think carefully about their questions and assured them that the event was not meant to cause any disturbance: “We’re all here to have a nice conversation, and we’re all supportive of it.”
Policy and Political Context
Vance also addressed concerns regarding President Trump’s potential conflict of interest in setting policy toward Israel. He stated that he did not see such a conflict of interest, noting that Miriam Adelson, one of his top donors, is open about her views.
Future Vision and Division
The discussion also touched on the issue of requiring Christianity in public schools and how to extend an olive branch to Democrats. While acknowledging areas of disagreement with certain policies, Vance noted that he had some areas of agreement with Democrats, including efforts to break up corporate monopolies.
Continuing Charlie Kirk’s Legacy
The event marked the only stop on the Turning Point USA tour attended by Erika Kirk, who has taken over as head of the organization. Vance said his intention was to keep Kirk’s memory and mission alive: “Charlie built a sizable following in part by traveling to college campuses to hold events where he would debate students on various issues. I’m here today to continue that tradition.”
The visit highlighted the ongoing efforts to bridge political divides through engagement with young voters, as well as the continued impact of individuals like Charlie Kirk and their legacies within conservative political circles.
