The high-profile murder of far-right commentator Charlie Kirk has triggered a media firestorm, conspiracy theories, and now, a gag order, but conservative commentator Candace Owens says she has no intention of staying silent.
What Is the Gag Order?
In the case of State v. Tyler Robinson, 4th District Court Judge Tony Graf has issued a gag order, legally prohibiting attorneys from both sides from making public statements that could prejudice the ongoing trial. Robinson, 22, is charged with aggravated murder and other felonies in connection to the September 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
The gag order is meant to ensure a fair trial by limiting public commentary from those directly involved in the legal proceedings. Specifically, it restricts lawyers from releasing extrajudicial comments that could sway public opinion or influence jurors.
Judge Graf emphasized the order's intent, stating, “Regardless of who is watching, whether it is the nation or a single individual, we must fulfil our roles with integrity, civility and diligence. I encourage each of you to give your very best to this case. Neither Mr. Robinson nor the people of Utah deserve anything less than the fair and impartial administration of justice.”
While the order applies legally to attorneys, it does not extend to the general public or media personalities, though it clearly seeks to calm the rhetoric surrounding the case.
Why Is Candace Owens Defying It?
Candace Owens, a polarizing media figure and longtime associate of Kirk, has been vocally defiant. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “Don’t worry about the gag order in the Charlie Kirk case. I plan to violate it on the world’s behalf.”
Owens has positioned herself as one of the loudest voices questioning the official narrative of Kirk’s murder. She has also claimed there’s more to the story, even stating, “The things I’ve discovered this past week are enough to burn the house down.”
While she has yet to disclose what she claims to have uncovered, her online activity, including sharing alleged group chat screenshots which, according to her, showed Kirk's wavering support for Israel and suggesting a federal cover-up, has kept speculation alive. Owens has also criticized Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, for participating in a photoshoot shortly after his death, questioning her motives and actions.
While the gag order is not legally binding on Owens, her defiance raises questions about the limits of free speech during high-stakes legal proceedings and the influence of public figures on the court of public opinion.