Patriot Awards attendees dish on Charlie Kirk’s legacy, Mamdani’s election win

From President Donald Trump’s triumphant return to the White House to the shocking assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, the last 12 months have been a whirlwind of dazzling political and cultural moments. Fox News fans once again gathered on Long Island for an exciting awards ceremony and had a lot to say about some of the biggest headlines of 2025.

Fox Nation’s seventh annual Patriot Awards, hosted by Sean Hannity, were held at the Tilles Center in Greenvale, New York, earlier this month. Attendees donned their official and patriotic attire to join in the festivities with their favorite Fox News personalities and later attend the awards ceremony, where ordinary Americans were honored for their heroism and country pride.

They also spoke on Fox News Digital about several key issues of 2025, including Kirk’s murder.

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The influential conservative commentator was killed during one of his public speaking events at Utah Valley University earlier this year.

““He was the definition of a patriot,” said a young male guest at the event. “That’s what he did every day, that’s what he tried to do.”

One female participant expressed disappointment that the tragic shooting of Kirk may have caused further division among Americans.

“After the assassination of Charlie Kirk, it was very hurtful to see how divided some people were on this issue, because this was a moment where I thought more of the country would come together,” he said. “And looking at it the other way, their reaction, you know, was not very patriotic in my opinion.”

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A participant holds a sign that reads “Never Surrender” before a memorial service for political activist Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Another young woman emphasized that Kirk’s killing was a sign that people should openly express their political beliefs.

“I think something like this reiterates to our generation — tons of generations — that it’s important to stay true to what you believe in and speak up about what’s important, and that no one should be able to silence you just because of a difference of opinion,” he explained.

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While discussing other topical topics with Patriot Awards attendees, some explained what being a patriot means to them. One guest said it meant “putting America first” and advocating for veterans. Another said a patriot is simply “someone who is proud of this country.”

A shot from the stage at Fox Nation’s 2025 Patriot Awards in New York. (Fox News)

One man pointed out an example of unpatriotic behavior by accusing Democrats of not showing enough pride for the United States.

““Nothing Democrats do is patriotic,” he said. “They hate America, and people on the far left absolutely hate America.”

Some Patriot Award participants expressed dismay at the victory of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. The self-described socialist Democrat drew the ire of a retired NYPD officer, who said: “I’m glad I’m not there right now, just sayin’.”

One man explained his pessimistic outlook on the Big Apple due to Mamdani’s victory but said he remained optimistic about its future.

“I feel so bad for New York; it’s my hometown, I grew up there,” he said. “But maybe he needs to go through some growing pains to learn what true conservatism is.”

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Those who missed the live broadcast of the Patriot Awards on Fox Nation can watch the rebroadcast on Fox News Channel this Thanksgiving at 8pm ET.

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