Charlie Kirk emerges as the most trending figure on Google’s 2025 search list

WASHINGTON, DC: Google has released its list of the most searched topics in the United States for 2025. The rankings highlight the news, politics, technology, and pop culture stories that drew the most attention this year. Turning Point USA founder and conservative commentator Charlie Kirk claimed the top spot in the overall category, as per Google Trends. 

Following his death, searches for Kirk surged dramatically, making him the most searched person of the year as his passing dominated headlines nationwide.

Google searches spike after tragic campus shooting, Charlie Kirk tops list

The TPUSA founder’s shooting and death while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University on September 10 prompted the nation to actively search for news about Charlie Kirk.

From the alleged shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, to comments made by Donald Trump regarding the incident, the story dominated headlines. Erika Kirk (Charlie Kirk’s widow), also made appearances in the media. Coverage included controversies, speculation, updates, and even shifts in the political landscape following Kirk’s death.

Even three months later, Kirk remained one of the most discussed topics. Kirk’s memorial service attracted widespread attention, particularly when Trump and Elon Musk attended. Even now, developments surrounding Kirk’s death and its aftermath continue to make headlines.

On social media, discussions about Kirk continued to trend. Reels, videos, past incidents, debates, and analyses of his actions and influence circulated widely, keeping the conversation open to the public. For those still unaware, Kirk was allegedly shot dead by Tyler Robinson. Prosecutors have filed a capital murder charge against him and will seek the death penalty.

Global events and trade debates round out top searches

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a major piece of legislation supported by President Trump, ranked second, drawing widespread attention and dominating political conversations. Closely following were searches related to a government shutdown, which interrupted federal operations and caused nationwide concern.

Pop culture and consumer trends also captured public interest. Netflix’s 'KPop Demon Hunters' landed in fourth place, while the viral collectible toy Labubu ranked fifth. Apple’s iPhone 17 release came in sixth, highlighting continued enthusiasm for major tech launches.

The list also reflected interest in technology and global events. The AI platform DeepSeek secured seventh place, followed by Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Democratic socialist mayor of New York City, at eighth. The FIFA Club World Cup was ninth, and searches related to tariffs completed the top 10 amid renewed debates over trade and economic policy.