Arizona Senate leader seeks to rename highway after Kirk

By Chris Woodward
The Center Square

An Arizona state legislator wants to honor Charlie Kirk.

Senate President Warren Petersen, R-Gilbert, has announced his intentions to introduce a bill during the next legislative session that would rename State Route 202 as the Charlie Kirk Memorial Loop 202.

Petersen, who did not respond to a request by The Center Square for comment, said in a press release that his bill “ensures” that Kirk’s faith, influence on young Americans, and devotion to God, family, and country will never be forgotten.

“Wednesday, September 10, 2025, will forever be noted in history as a dark day where evil in its truest form was on full display,” said Petersen in a press release.

A Christian evangelist and conservative activist, Kirk was shot and killed Sept. 10 during an appearance at Utah Valley University in Orem. Kirk was 31 years old.

Police arrested 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson of Utah and charged him with seven counts including the capital crime of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing bodily harm, obstruction of justice and witness tampering.

Prosecutors are also seeking the death penalty.

“Charlie Kirk was assassinated in cold blood by a cowardly terrorist and was targeted for his influence, but we must press forward,” said Petersen. “While Charlie Kirk cannot be replaced, this effort can make sure his legacy lives on.”

Born in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Kirk went on to found Turning Point USA, which is headquartered in Phoenix. An annual event known as America Fest is also held in Phoenix. Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, said in a televised statement that America Fest will go on as planned Dec. 18-21.

Meanwhile, Petersen will be pushing his legislation to honor Charlie Kirk, who was an Arizona resident.

“We all have a role to play in carrying on Charlie’s legacy,” said Petersen. “Renaming this highway is a small step toward honoring Charlie’s immense contribution, but it is also a call for each of us to press on in faith, to live courageously for Jesus, and to stand firm in the principles Charlie so boldly championed.”