USU updates security guidelines for upcoming TPUSA event

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah State University will require attendees of Tuesday's Turning Point USA event to go through metal detectors and other security measures before participating. On Friday, USU updated its security measures page for the TPUSA event, clarifying what is allowed inside the "This Is the Turning Point Tour" event at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum. According to USU, the guidelines are similar to the ones used at USU Athletic events, but will include:

• Everyone going into the event will pass through metal detectors.
• Backpacks and bags larger than 6.5 by 4.5 inches will not be allowed.
• Purses, clutches and other small bags no larger than 6.5 inches by 4.5 inches will be searched.
• No outside signs allowed.
• No re-entry.

Due to a Utah law passed in 2025, USU must allow attendees with a concealed carry permit to bring their firearm if they wish to do so. Those individuals are allowed to carry their firearm openly or conceal it. "USU Police may ask you to confirm that you have a current concealed weapon permit issued by the State of Utah. If you do not have a concealed carry permit, you may be referred for criminal discipline or charges," the university stated on its website. USU said it is working with local, state and federal officials on additional security measures for the TPUSA event to ensure that everyone is safe. "Given the heightened concerns, USU’s department of public safety is continuing to collaborate with these partners to ensure appropriate safety measures and protocols are in place," USU said. Initially, political commentator and founder of TPUSA, Charlie Kirk, was going to speak at USU on Tuesday, but was fatally shot during the "America Comeback" tour at Utah Valley University in September. https://ksltv.com/crime-public-safety/students-question-security-at-charlie-kirks-uvu-event/818227/ To replace Kirk, Utah Sen. Mike Lee, Gov. Spencer Cox, Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs and former Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz will be speaking at USU. Chaffetz confirmed to KSL NewsRadio that he and the other panelists will be accepting questions in a debate style that Kirk popularized on college campuses. USU is not selling tickets to the event and they are only purchasable on the TPUSA website. According to USU, the doors will open at 5 p.m. and the event will begin at 6:30 p.m. Students will receive priority entry to the event. Despite other events being streamed in Minnesota and Virginia, TPUSA representatives told KSL that live streaming is not allowed.

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