Charlie Kirk's assassination has dealt a significant blow to MAGA's ability to pressure Washington and the Republican Party from outside the White House.

Why it matters: The right-wing media ecosystem is vast, with several figures wielding large audiences. But few can channel grassroots anger into real fear of primary challenges — the kind of pressure that shapes lawmakers' behavior. • Kirk was one of those influencers, and already this year had shown his unique ability to bend GOP members of Congress to MAGA's will.

Driving the news: MAGA media functions like an information army. President Trump is the commander-in-chief, while Kirk — along with figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Steve Bannon — served as a top general. • Kirk first proved his clout in Trump 2.0 during bruising confir

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