We are all Charlie Kirk
DATE: Friday, September 12, 2025
AUTHOR: Hon. Eric Brakey - Executive Director, Free State Project
Charlie Kirk was not a libertarian, but we are all Charlie Kirk.
His crime was participation in the civil discourse of this country — and someone decided the penalty for that crime was death.
Charlie Kirk speaks before he is shot during Turning Point's visit to Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (Tess Crowley/The Deseret News via AP)
As a retired public figure, I have often found myself arguing unpopular ideas in open settings that made some angry.
Perhaps that's why this week's events have unsettled me more than usual (even as news of human violence around the world and in our own country becomes sadly commonplace), but I am not the only one who feels shaken by this.
Many across New Hampshire and the country feel it — like some invisible line has been crossed we did not even know was there.
I am reminded of the assassination of the Gracchi Brothers, which many note as the beginning of the end for the Roman Republic.
Populist reformers, Tiberius and Gaius were assassinated by mobs and political rivals due to reforms they sought that threatened the power of the wealthy patrician elite and the Senate.
Their deaths marked a turning point, as violence became a recognized tool for resolving political crises in Rome.
When two assassination attempts were waged against Donald Trump last year, at least it could be said that he was a man who had wielded tremendous state power and sought to again.
Charlie Kirk, however, never wielded direct political power. His only crime was discourse and the encouragement of right-of-center young people to engage with the political system.
Charlie was a young man, a father, a husband, and a defender of Western Civilization.
Charlie Kirk was not a libertarian, but we are all Charlie Kirk.
If he can be targeted for death while participating in public civil discourse, the threat is made clear to every peaceful citizen speaking challenging ideas.
That bullet was aimed at free speech itself.
There were areas of strong disagreement I had with him, but Charlie Kirk was often an ally to libertarians on some of the most important matters of national state power.
He regularly cited libertarian economists — like Rothbard, Mises, Hayek, and Friedman — among his influences. Earlier this year, he even endorsed Ron Paul for Chairman of the Federal Reserve.
Earlier this year, Charlie Kirk backed calls for Ron Paul as the next Chairman for the Federal Reserve Bank.
Charlie Kirk emerged on the right as a figure who gave young conservatives permission to question the neocon forever wars.
He built his youth organization, Turning Point USA, around the 2016 conservative populist movement that elected Donald Trump.
As I watched, I respected that Kirk was often a force guiding young people in this chaotic coalition away from the neoconservative orthodoxies that dominated the Bush-era GOP.
During the first term of the Trump Administration, Charlie Kirk regularly used his influence with young conservatives to oppose the forever wars in the Middle East.
While many people publicly speculate and assert who is responsible for this heinous crime and why they did it, the truth is that we do not know. Here are some things, however, that I do know.
Yesterday was the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 twin tower attacks.
Over the two dozen years since, the lesson I ultimately learned from those terrible events was this: good people will earnestly seek answers, while opportunistic people will dis-earnestly seek to provide them.
In moments of crisis and confusion, many with pre-existing political agendas will seek to manipulate and direct our angers toward their targets.
Before we know what happened, in this moment of vulnerability, we must be wary of those who would prey upon our fears to serve their own agendas — setting us against innocent people (like the people of Iraq) who had nothing to do with the terrible events that took place.
While facts are sparse at this time, the Charlie Kirk assassination represents an escalation of political violence in this country. As the world spins out of control, one positive thing we can do is ask ourselves some important questions.
Am I living in a community of people with shared values that will support each other during a time of crisis?
Or am I living in a community where neighbors will turn against each other the next time government demands we snitch on those exercising their rights as free people?
There is disturbing rhetoric we read online (and see on certain media outlets) from people who celebrate, justify, or minimize this open air murder.
I see this and realize these same people would cheer on my own public execution if I ever found myself in Charlie's shoes.
While I seek to follow the teachings of Jesus to love these people and pray for their souls, I never want to live again in a state where those who would dance on my grave hold political power over me or my family.
It makes me glad I live in New Hampshire and in community with thousands working to build a resilient Free State that protects individual rights to life, liberty, and property.
Visit the Free State
We are always working to grow our Free State communities.
If you are not currently in New Hampshire, I invite you to plan a visit and experience what we are building for yourself.
Check out our NH Liberty Calendar and pop in for any of the near daily events taking place across all regions of the state.
As my friend, Dennis Pratt, always recommends, pick any week on the Calendar and come out for a "Porcupine Vacation."
(You can even stay at the Independence Inn and mention the Free State Project for a 50% discount.)
Personally, I want to invite you to join us on Sunday, September 21 for the first annual Granite Freedom Trek.
On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, lace up your boots.
Join fellow liberty lovers for a scenic hike of Mt. Cardigan (3,155 ft) and Mt. Firescrew (3,040 ft) in a moderate 5-mile loop offering breathtaking 360-degree views of New Hampshire’s rolling hills — led by expert hiker Derek Proulx.
For active Free Staters and liberty-loving visitors who enjoy the outdoors, join us as we traverse New Hampshire trails in good company during one of the most beautiful times of year.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious newcomer, you are invited to join us for this one-day (rain or shine) medium difficulty hiking adventure. (Click here to see the trail map.)
Due to popular demand, we have added ten additional tickets for sale. We only have a limited number of hiking slots available, so act fast. Grab your ticket now!
Liberty Wins in New Hampshire
For those who love liberty, New Hampshire keeps getting better.
The march of liberty through the institutions of New Hampshire politics and culture has made tremendous strides over recent years — and policy victories in the state legislature are great proof of this.
This week, on Episode 80 of the Porcupine Report, I was pleased to be joined by Sarah Scott, Deputy Director of New Hampshire Americans for Prosperity.
Just this year alone, thanks to the work of liberty legislators in New Hampshire, we've seen:
Income Taxes Abolished - With the repeal of the interest and dividend tax, all remnants of the personal income tax have been totally abolished in New Hampshire.
Right to Try Expanded - Terminally ill patients seeking access to investigational drugs and treatments can now waive liability and determine eligibility through tele-health consultations, ensuring more doctors will participate and patients can find them.
School Choice Established for Everyone - Education Freedom Accounts are now available to every family, ending the long era of government school monopolies that has kept children trapped and allowed administrators to ignore the needs of families.
Car Inspection Mandate Eliminated - Motorists in New Hampshire will no longer be required to submit themselves to a state-mandated vehicle inspection every year.
Healthcare Competition Legalized - With the elimination of Certificate of Need requirements near critical access hospitals, northern New Hampshire is now open to new healthcare providers that seek to serve these rural areas.
Sound Money Restored - The nation's first strategic Bitcoin reserve law was passed in New Hampshire, allowing the Treasurer to hold up to 5% of state reserves in gold, silver, or Bitcoin.
Tune in to the Porcupine Report to hear my conversation with Sarah Scott on these liberty victories.
Porcupine Report, Ep. 80. In this episode, Eric talks with Sarah Scott, Deputy State Director of Americans for Prosperity–New Hampshire. They dive into the wave of liberty victories in the state, from expanding Education Freedom Accounts to every child, to eliminating mandatory annual car inspections. Sarah explains how New Hampshire is leading on issues like healthcare choice with expanded “Right to Try,” free market zoning reforms for housing, and even establishing a strategic Bitcoin and gold reserve. Together, they highlight how grassroots activism and liberty-minded legislators are reshaping policy in the Granite State. The conversation ends with a call for more people to get involved, whether as activists or future candidates, to keep the momentum going.
Responding to Free Haters
In the aftermath of the recent assassination, I hope that California-transplant Jean Lewandowski reconsiders her use of dehumanizing rhetoric, calling Free Staters "invasive" weeds that must be "rooted out" in a recent op-ed.
The Union Leader published my response to her on Monday. You can click here to read the digital edition.
Outreach to Maine Gun Owners
With Red Flag gun confiscation on the ballot in Taxationland this November, many Mainers are worried their freedoms will continue slipping away from them.
Following recent comments from Maine's authoritarian Governor, Janet Mills (declaring that Maine people don't like New Hampshire), volunteers on our FSP Outreach Team traveled to the Augusta Gun Show last month to learn the truth.
It turns out that the Maine people we met love New Hampshire.
It's the Governor they don't love.
With outreach efforts to Maine in recent weeks, we have signed up over 100 new freedom lovers for this Free State Project newsletter.
This empowers us to communicate with and invite them to visit New Hampshire for upcoming events.
(Of course, once someone visits and experiences the Free State, how can they not consider making the move?)
That's why, we are going back to Maine for another gun show — this time in Aroostook County.
It's a four hour drive to the Houlton Gun Show this weekend, but I am making the journey with two of our top volunteers.
As a two day event, I have promised our volunteers that the FSP will cover their expenses for gas, meals, and lodging during this outreach opportunity — and my full budget for this is around $1,000.
Your support is greatly appreciated — and I will count every donation that comes in towards status in our Porcupine Patrons program.
Maine Gun Show. Last month, FSP outreach volunteers traveled to the Augusta Gun Show and met dozens curious about liberty across the border. This weekend, we are going back to the Pine Tree State (deep north Aroostook County) to connect with more Maine gun owners at the Houlton Gun Show.
Porcupine Patron Update
If you believe in our mission for a libertarian homeland in New Hampshire, I'd like to ask you to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project.
For just $10/month, you can support our year-round efforts to build "Liberty in Our Lifetime" — outreaching and inviting new movers to join us in the Free State.
Additionally, you will receive exclusive patron benefits, including our quarterly print newsletter, access to our private Signal group, and perks at all FSP events.
We currently have 205 active patrons and we want to reach 225 by the end of September.
Porcupine Patron Pin. In addition to other fantastic benefits, every Porcupine Patron of the Free State Project receives this "Porcupine Patron Pin." These pins are not just for show! Patron pins grant access to exclusive perks at all FSP events, including VIP rooms, patron-only events, and courtesy drink tickets. Click here to become a Porcupine Patron for the Free State Project.
It is my honor to serve as Executive Director of the FSP.
Please read on for more of our weekly newsletter from the Free State, prepared with assistance from our Communications Director, Mahgdalen Rose.
For Liberty!
Hon. Eric Brakey
Executive Director
Free State Project
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
FREE STATE FALL FEST:
For the entire three-day "Columbus Day" weekend (October 11-13), our friends at Independence Realty are organizing several family-friendly events across the state.
Activities will include apple picking, axe throwing, a family hike, and even an arcade day at Fun Spot (the largest arcade in the world).
CLICK HERE for more information and to RSVP for currently announced Fall Fest events.
FREE STATE BITCOIN DIGITAL ASSET CONFERENCE:
On Sunday, October 12, the FSBDAC returns with discussions on cutting-edge issues and opportunities in the emerging realm of cryptocurrencies.
This event will be held at Wentworth by the Sea in beautiful New Castle, NH. Included with your ticket will be a light breakfast, coffee, refreshments, and lunch.
CLICK HERE to Secure Your Ticket to the Free State Bitcoin Digital Asset Conference.
This November 9th, several friends with the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire are running in the Manchester City Marathon.
Under the team name, "LPNH for Defend The Guard," they are seeking to raise support and awareness for legislative efforts to bring our state National Guard troops home from foreign wars not declared by Congress.
If you would like to run with the team, email Rachel Goldsmith (or send her a text message) for details: goldsmithrd@gmail.com.
Recurring Free State Events
New Mover Potluck Parties!
Manchester - First Friday
Upper Valley - First Saturday
Seacoast - Third Sunday
North Country - Third Saturday
Local Meetups!
Manchester - weekly, Tuesdays
Plymouth - semi-monthly, second and fourth Wednesdays
Seacoast - weekly, Thursdays (changes town)
Upper Valley - monthly, fourth Tuesday
Nashua - weekly, Sundays
Gilford - monthly, third Saturday
Lancaster - monthly, third Saturday
Ossipee - semi-monthly, second Sunday and third Tuesday
Madison - monthly, second Saturday
Grafton - monthly, second Saturday
Keene - weekly, Sundays
Lower Valley - monthly, third Friday
This is only a small sample of what's going on in the Free State! Recurring topical events include agorism, family play time, range shooting, and crypto.
Find upcoming events across the state on our NH Liberty Calendar.
NH Liberty Calendar
Free State Voices
Jason Sorens: "Can the President Assassinate Suspected Criminals?"
Jason Sorens (FSP Founder) takes aim at the Trump Administration for claiming power to execute extra-judicial killings without authorization from Congress.
Carla Gericke: "The Line Between Ugly Word and Ugly Deeds."
In her daily video, Carla Gericke (FSP Board Chair) reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the dehumanizing rhetoric from local progressives calling Free Staters "invasive" weeds that must be "rooted out."
Jason Sorens: "Concerning Job Numbers"
In an interview on NTD News, Jason Sorens (FSP Founder) discusses the concerning state of the U.S. labor market with poor job numbers — particularly in manufacturing and construction, suggesting tariffs are driving up input costs in these areas and slowing down economic growth. He notes that these job number may lead to rate cuts at the Federal Reserve, but price inflation rates persistently higher than targets has the central bank stuck "between a rock and a hard place," leading to historically high gold prices.
News from the Free State
Union Leader: Eric Brakey: We intend to keep New Hampshire free
CBS: Massachusetts gun licensing law being challenged by New Hampshire as unconstitutional
WMUR: New Hampshire political leaders react after conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot, killed in Utah
WMUR: Conservative activist Kirk was scheduled to speak in New Hampshire this month
Newsweek: John Sununu Within Striking Distance of Flipping Democrat Senate Seat—Poll
WOKQ: New Hampshire and Massachusetts Both Ranked in Top 10 Happiest in the U.S.
ABC: New Hampshire boy, 13, reels in 177-pound halibut while deep-sea fishing that may be a world record
WHUR: WorldAtlas releases top eight quirkiest spots in New Hampshire
NHPR: Want to stargaze in New Hampshire? Here’s how to start.
WMUR: New Hampshire marks the 120th anniversary of the Portsmouth Peace Treaty
FSP: Hands Off Our Pickles (Last Week's Newsletter)
PorcFest XXII
We have been publishing content from this year's Porcupine Freedom Festival.
Just as we did earlier this year with the NH Liberty Forum, we will be publishing PorcFest content on a rolling basis, several times a week, across multiple social media platforms. Please find below all content published since our last newsletter!
You can find all video content from FSP events on YouTube and all audio-only content on our Spotify podcast channel: "FSP Talks."
"Protecting Your Privacy in the Digital Era" with Naomi Brockwell
In this PorcFest talk, Naomi Brockwell dives into the growing threats to privacy in our digital age. She explains how governments and corporations are collecting unprecedented amounts of personal data, often without transparency or accountability. From financial surveillance to online tracking, Brockwell highlights the dangers of allowing these practices to become normalized. She also explores the role of new technologies—like encryption and decentralized tools—in empowering individuals to take back control of their information. Her talk is both a warning and a call to action for anyone who values freedom in the digital era.
"How Ron Paul Changed the Republican Party Forever" with Jack Hunter
Hannah Cox delivers a powerful critique of American politics, exposing how both parties enable endless wars, reckless spending, and shrinking personal freedom. She emphasizes that corruption is bipartisan, with Washington’s elite manipulating voters through fear while enriching themselves at the public’s expense. Cox also addresses the growing cultural backlash against women’s rights, feminism, and unmarried women without children, showing how political and social forces often intertwine to erode liberty. She challenges the audience to see beyond the false left-right divide and recognize the broader systems of control at work. The talk ultimately calls for rejecting both partisan illusions and cultural scapegoating in favor of a renewed commitment to individual freedom.
"Live Free & Be Ready: Building Resilience in the Free State" with Constance Spencer and Panelists
Hosted by Constance Spencer, this panel explores how Free Staters in New Hampshire are building resilience through preparedness, skill-sharing, and strong community bonds. The speakers emphasize that resilience isn’t just about disaster readiness—it’s about creating parallel systems that allow families to thrive, from homeschooling co-ops to bartering networks. They share stories of how community support turns everyday challenges into opportunities for connection and growth. The discussion highlights practical skills like canning, welding, and ham radio, alongside the deeper strength found in trust and collaboration. Viewers are left with the message that preparedness is not isolation, but intentional community-building.
As Seen In the Free State
Welcome Home! This past Friday at the Manchester New Movers Potluck, we gave a warm welcome to five new Free Staters who made the move to New Hampshire.
The Most Effective Libertarian Project in the World. At Liberpulco in Liberland, a speaker with the Free Cities Foundation recognizes the Free State Project as the most effective effort in the world to build a libertarian society. Click here to watch the video.
Nausha Liberty Meet-Up. This city may be regarded the "Gateway to Massachusetts," but even in Nashua, Free Staters build community and guard the border at their monthly meet-up.
NH is #1 for Public Safety. According to U.S. News and World Report, New Hampshire is the safest state in America with low rates for violent crime and property crime.
Salamander Season. Thanks to recent weather, it's a good time to spot salamanders in the Free State.
Some Upcoming Events:
Friday, September 12th
Hampton, 6pm-8:30 - Free State Musicians meet up at One A Chord Studios - One A Chord Studios Free State Musicians meet up. Hosted by Billabyte Smith. (One A Chord Studios, 32 Depot Square, Hampton)
Saturday, September 13th
Manchester, 11am-3pm - Rimmon Heights Block Party - We're throwing a Block Party, and you're invited to join the fun! Great music, food trucks, games and kid friendly activities. Stop by the Dunk Tank for your chance to get some Manchester Celebrities and School staff soaked. We will be collecting food for the Middle School at Parkside Food Pantry. Hosted by Rimmon Heights. (Location: Rimmon St. between Kelley St. and Bremer St.)
Portsmouth, 12pm-3 - Seacoast Cryptocurrency Meetup - Come out, chat about crypto, learn more about it and how to use it, and of course use it to buy your food and drinks! Hosted by Joel Valenzuela. (La Maison Navarre, 121 Congress St, Portsmouth)
Lancaster, 12pm-5 - North Country Game Day Potluck - Bring your favorite board / card games and a dish to share! There will be plenty of games on hand for all interests. Free for the 'Pine members ($5 for non-members). Hosted by Amy Norris. (the 'Pine Clubhouse - 70 Main St, 2nd floor, Lancaster)
Madison, 4pm-6 - Carroll County Freedom Potluck - A monthly meet-up is in your area, so come on up and say hi! Please RSVP to mdj@freestatefiles.com for directions or call our landline 603 367 7257 and indicate that you're with the FSP. Hosted by Mark & Michelle.
Grafton, 4pm-7 - Grafton Potluck - Monthly potluck for friends of liberty, i.e., Free Staters and friends, that meets every second Saturday. Call Rich for details at 207 370 7282. (272 Turnpike Rd, Grafton)
Sunday, September 14th
Lancaster, 10am-11 - North Country Sunday Yoga/Pilates - Join for a casual yoga and Pilates session. Open to all levels. Free for The 'Pine members ($5 donation for non-members). Hosted by Amy Norris. (the 'Pine Clubhouse - 70 Main St, 2nd floor, Lancaster)
Concord, 11am-2pm - Baby & Toddler Clothing Swap - Come swap your too-small children's clothing for the next size up! We'll celebrate a young family (size 2T-3T) as they prepare for their first winter in NH. We also welcome first time moms & usually have newborn supplies they can take home. If you don't have clothes to donate, please bring a festive fall snack to share. Hosted by Mrs Kin. (the Prickle, 74 Curtisville Rd, Concord)
Ossipee, 12pm-2 - Ossipee Porcupines Meetup - Come meet your neighbors at Harley Jacks for lunch with mountain views. We'll be sharing how we're living free and what practical efforts we want to try to keep increasing liberty in the east of the Free State! Hosted by Tim Bauman. (Harley Jacks Burgers & Brews, 1020 NH-16, Ossipee)
Candia, 1:15pm-3:15 - Garnet School Ruck - What is a ruck? Rucking is the act of walking with weight on your back. It’s a low impact exercise based on military training workouts that improves cardio, strength, endurance, and character. This is a challenge by choice event, go as heavy or as far as you’re enthusiastic about. Whether you come for camaraderie or to test your mettle, as long as you come in peace, you’re welcome! Hosted by Michael Rohan. (Garnet School, 456 Critchett Rd, Candia)
Remember that this is only a partial list. For all FSP events and more details on those highlighted here, be sure to check out the NH Liberty Calendar.