Kirk's Speech at Youth Government Day

Kirk delivered a speech at Benedictine University's 'Youth Government Day' at the age of 18. This event was designed to engage young people in the political process and encourage their participation in government. During the event, Kirk had the opportunity to meet Bill Montgomery, a 72-year-old retiree who was actively involved in politics as a Tea Party-backed legislative candidate. Montgomery recognized the potential in Kirk and encouraged him to pursue political activism on a full-time basis. This interaction highlighted the importance of mentorship in politics, particularly for young individuals seeking to make an impact in their communities. Kirk's speech resonated with attendees, emphasizing the need for youth engagement in governance and the role of young leaders in shaping future policies. The event served as a platform for Kirk to articulate his views and aspirations, which would later influence his political journey and commitment to public service. Montgomery's encouragement played a crucial role in motivating Kirk to take his first steps into the political arena, illustrating how connections made at such events can lead to significant career developments in public service. Key Details of the Speech: • Content: Kirk spoke to an audience of a few hundred high school students, advocating for free markets and limited government. He notably criticized the liberal bias he perceived in high school economics textbooks, particularly the influence of economist Paul Krugman. • Impact: His speech reportedly shifted the energy of the room, capturing the attention of the students after previous speakers had "put the kids to sleep". • Meeting Bill Montgomery: During this event, Kirk met 72-year-old retiree and Tea Party activist Bill Montgomery. Montgomery was so impressed by Kirk's performance that he urged the teenager to skip college and pursue full-time political activism instead. Resulting Formation of Turning Point USA: • Following this encounter, Kirk and Montgomery co-founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) in June 2012, just one month after the speech and one day after Kirk graduated from high school. The organization was designed to promote conservative principles on college and high school campuses, eventually growing into one of the largest conservative youth organizations in the United States.