Candace Owens Criticizes Tyler Robinson Hearing as 'Show Trial'

Candace Owens criticized the Tyler Robinson hearing as it began in Utah, calling it a "show trial" and questioning the prosecution's evidence. She mocked Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, and accused her supporters of pushing an emotional narrative. Prosecutors presented DNA evidence, witness testimony and video related to Charlie Kirk's 2025 killing. Judge Tony Graf will decide whether the case has enough evidence to proceed to trial.

As a key court hearing began in Utah, Candace Owens reignited the controversy over the Tyler Robinson case. When Robinson showed up in court for the first time with Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents, Owens said prosecutors were relying on unvetted evidence and that emotion and not fairness was driving the proceedings, sparking yet another round of public debate around the high-profile case.

Tyler Robinson hearing begins as Candace Owens questions evidence

Tyler Robinson had his preliminary hearing July 6 in Utah, an important step in the criminal case from the deadly shooting of political commentator Charlie Kirk in September 2025. It was also the first time Robinson came face-to-face with Charlie Kirk’s family, including his widow, Erika Kirk. Before court proceedings began, conservative commentator Candace Owens shared a lengthy post on X, criticizing both the legal process and the public narrative surrounding the case. “Today the Tyler Robinson show trial begins,” wrote Candace. “Evidence like text message confessions will be allowed in the court room, despite the fact that Tyler’s defense has not been allowed to vet those messages to determine if they were doctored or who actually sent them. Remember, the FBI and ATF was not forced to turn over key evidence despite multiple discovery requests because the judge has ruled it’s not necessary at this stage. ” Owens also challenged how witness testimony would be presented during the hearing. “Key witness testimony from Lance Twiggs will be played, but Lance Twiggs is not allowed to be cross-examined because the judge has ruled it’s not necessary at this stage. Today is about emotion. You will hear the Fed’s narrative absent any ability for the defense to meaningfully dispute it.” Her comments quickly gained attention online, adding another layer of controversy to a case that has remained under intense public scrutiny since Charlie Kirk's death.

Tyler Robinson hearing focuses on evidence before judge's decision

Owens continued her criticism by taking aim at Erika Kirk and social media figures supporting the prosecution's case. “What you can expect (aside from Erika’s tears) are an orbit of her pay-rolled influencers trying to convince you that the unvetted evidence is “overwhelming” and “undeniable”. Sit back and watch the predictable show. The real trial will come later. Charlie’s army is growing. Ultimately, truth will win.” While Owens questioned the fairness of the proceedings, prosecutors prepared to present a wide range of evidence before Judge Tony Graf. The hearing functions as a preliminary examination rather than a full trial, meaning prosecutors only need to establish probable cause instead of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. According to court filings, the prosecution intends to present DNA evidence allegedly connecting Robinson to the suspected murder weapon, testimony from investigators, autopsy findings, witness statements and surveillance video related to the shooting. Prosecutors are also permitted to rely on hearsay evidence during this stage under Utah law. Judge Graf previously rejected a defense request to limit public access, allowing members of the media and the public to attend the hearing. The case stems from the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, during a student question-and-answer event at Utah Valley University in Orem. Authorities allege Robinson shot the 31-year-old political activist during the event. Once both sides complete their presentations, Judge Graf will decide whether prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial. That decision will not determine Robinson's guilt or innocence but will establish whether the prosecution has met the legal threshold required for the next stage of the criminal process.