Lake County Gazette

Marko Sukovic, a Republican candidate for Illinois' 59th District, expressed relief on the social media platform X after Carolyn Pinta, a Spanish teacher at Twin Groves Middle School, clarified her stance regarding political activist Charlie Kirk. Sukovic said he was "relieved" that Pinta affirmed Kirk's right to live.

"we are all relieved Carolyn Pinta clarified that she believes Charlie had the right to live," said Marko Šuković, Republican Candidate for State Representative. "Very reassuring because apparently this was an open ended question that needed to be resolved???"

Carolyn Pinta, who also serves as the director of the Pinta Pride Project, encountered criticism following a social media comment about Kirk. On September 10, she posted: "I DESPISE Charlie Kirk and all he stands for, BUT I believe he has the right to live. It’s the guns." When asked to clarify her statement, Pinta reiterated that she did not wish harm upon Kirk and emphasized her opposition to gun violence. According to The Daily Herald, she maintained that her political views are distinct from her professional responsibilities and does not believe her employment is at risk.

Sukovic's connection with Charlie Kirk dates back to his college years when he became Kirk's first hire for Turning Point USA while it was still operating from a garage in Lemont. He later pursued a political career by running for State Representative in Illinois' 59th District as a Republican candidate.

Sukovic's professional background includes roles such as Media Relations Intern for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Junior Associate at Mercury Public Affairs, and Political Director for Congressman Bob Dold (R-IL-10). During his college years, he contributed to establishing the conservative non-profit organization Turning Point USA and subsequently sought election as state representative in his home district.