Google unveils the most popular search trends of 2025

Google has published its yearly summary of the most-searched topics of 2025. Among the leading searches were the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, President Trump's "big, beautiful bill," and the record-breaking government shutdown in the U.S.

The annual "Year in Search" report offers insight into what captured Americans' attention over the past year, covering everything from major news events to popular culture. Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old right-wing activist and influential figure among young conservatives, was the most-searched individual. He passed away in September after being shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University.

His wife, Erika Kirk, who assumed leadership of Turning Point USA following his death, also ranked highly in search interest. She gained widespread attention for publicly forgiving her husbands shooter during his memorial service, which drew thousands to State Farm Stadium in Arizona, including former President Trump. Erika Kirk is scheduled to appear on a CBS one-hour town hall moderated by CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss on December 13 at 8 p.m. ET.

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani was another prominent figure in searches after winning against former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. At 34, Mamdani will become the citys first Muslim mayor, marking a historic milestone.

Americans also closely followed the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, which lasted 43 days and caused significant disruptions to air travel while leaving thousands of employees without pay. President Trump signed a bill in November to fund the government through January 30, 2026.

Top Google Searches in the U.S. (2025)

General Searches

• Charlie Kirk
• KPop Demon Hunters
• Labubui
• iPhone 17
• One Big Beautiful Bill Act

News Topics

• One Big Beautiful Bill Act
• Government shutdown
• Charlie Kirk assassination
• Tariffs
• No Kings protest

People

• Zohran Mamdani
• Tyler Robinson
• D4vd
• Erika Kirk
• Pope Leo XIV

Passings

• Charlie Kirk
• Gene Hackman
• Ozzy Osbourne
• Anne Burrell
• Diane Keaton

Author: Ethan Caldwell