The Mat-Su Borough Assembly voted to approve an addition to the voter guide for the Nov. 4 borough election that includes a statement in honor of Charlie Kirk and other victims of political violence.

Assemblyman Dmitri Fonov began the Sept. 16 meeting by noting that Charlie Kirk inspired him to public service, and said he had a “deep visceral reaction” upon learning of Kirk’s death last week.

Fonov then asked Member Ron Bernier to offer a public prayer for the nation and Kirk’s family.

Kirk, who was a popular conservative influencer and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in the neck on Sept. 10 during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.

Kirk was a passionate defender of free speech and an apologist for traditional understandings of marriage, life and the Christian faith.

Following Bernier’s prayer, Assemblyman Maxwell Sumner said Kirk’s death has deeply impacted him and he proposed adding new wording to the election guide, which is mailed to all registered Mat-Su voters.

“Considering we have an upcoming election, I think we should recognize that in an official way,” he said.

While Sumner’s original proposal did not mention Kirk, a successful amendment by Member Fonov added Kirk’s name.

Sumner opposed adding Kirk’s name, saying he wanted the statement to be nonpartisan.

Another amendment by Member Bernier added the words, “In God we trust” at the end of the statement. This passed unanimously.

Assemblywoman Stephanie Nowers proposed another successful amendment which added the words “and other victims of political violence,” following Kirk’s name.

Nowers lamented the string of violence that has plagued the nation recently, including the assassination attempts on President Trump and the murder of Kirk. She argued that the wording should be expanded to reflect the broader reality of political violence.

Fonov opposed this addition, saying that the assembly would not even be having this discussion had it not been for Kirk’s death.

Nowers amendment passed with members Fonov, Bernier and Sumner opposed.

The package of amendments passed 5-2 with Assemblymen Sumner and Tim Hale opposed.

The final wording of the addition to the voter guide reads as follows:

In memoriam of Charlie Kirk, 1993-2025, and other victims of political violence. 

As we prepare for civic participation and to exercise our democratic rights during this election season, we pause to honor those who have paid the ultimate price in defense of free speech and liberty. Throughout the history of democracy, there are individuals who have stood for the right to speak freely, to challenge authority, to gather peacefully and to live by conscience. Some have done so in public squares, on campuses, in protests during rallies in legislatures or in media, and too many have met in violence for that struggle. Their sacrifice is not in vain.

Freedom of expression is the cornerstone of democracy, as a right our founding fathers placed first among their amendments, as the foundation on which we build honest discourse, responsible governance and meaningful community. In honoring those who have fallen, regardless of background, belief or political persuasion, we reaffirm our commitment to civil dialogue, peaceful engagement and the right of every citizen to speak their truth without fear of reprisal. 

In the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, where liberty is a cherished value, we are reminded that democracy does not take care of itself — it must be protected, nurtured and renewed. The integrity of our elections, the accountability of our elected officials and the resilience of our communities all depend on our willingness to stand up for these freedoms. 

Let us remember with reverence the men and women who have given their lives for liberty, and let us honor them not only in words, but through our actions, in voting our principles and listening with patience and speaking with respect and in standing firm for the rights of others, even when we disagree. Freedom continues only when we defend it. May their courage serve to inspire ours. In God we trust.

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