Donald Trump Honors Charlie Kirk as “American Hero” at Arizona Memorial
Phoenix, Arizona — Former U.S. President Donald Trump paid tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, calling him a “great American hero” and a “martyr” during a massive memorial service attended by tens of thousands on Sunday.
Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead on September 10 while speaking at a university event in Utah. His death has sent shockwaves through the conservative movement, sparking both grief and renewed calls for activism.
Trump Leads Emotional Tribute
Speaking at State Farm Stadium near Phoenix, Trump praised Kirk as a fearless leader whose activism shaped America’s youth.
“He was assassinated because he lived bravely, he lived boldly, and he argued brilliantly,” Trump told the nearly 100,000-strong crowd. “He’s a martyr now for America’s freedom. History will never forget Charlie.”
The event carried the energy of a political rally blended with a religious revival, with Christian bands leading worship before the speakers took the stage. Attendees, many wearing red, white, and blue or MAGA hats, had camped out overnight to secure a spot.
Erika Kirk’s Tearful Forgiveness
Kirk’s wife, Erika, delivered one of the most emotional moments of the night. Tearfully addressing the crowd, she revealed she had forgiven the alleged killer, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.
“My husband wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life,” she said. “I forgive him because it is what Christ did. The answer to hate is not hate.”
She also announced she would take over as CEO of Turning Point USA, vowing to carry on her husband’s mission.
Conservative Leaders Rally Around Kirk’s Legacy
The five-hour service featured speeches from Vice President JD Vance, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other top administration figures.
“Charlie didn’t just help — he made the winning difference,” Wiles said, crediting him with mobilizing the youth vote for Trump.
Vice President Vance told mourners: “We wouldn’t be here without him. But we’ve got it from here.”
Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff, described Kirk’s death as a rallying cry: “The day Charlie died, angels wept. But those tears have been turned into fire in our hearts.”
Trump and Musk Unite on Stage
One surprising moment came when Elon Musk, who had publicly clashed with Trump earlier this year, sat beside him during the service. The two shook hands and later posed for a photo together, which Musk shared online with the caption: “For Charlie.”
A Polarizing Figure, A Lasting Movement
Kirk’s activism, which began when he co-founded Turning Point USA at just 18, made him a central figure in conservative politics. Known for his combative style on college campuses, he drew millions of followers on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), helping galvanize young conservatives behind Trump.
While he energized the right, Kirk also faced fierce criticism from liberals for his positions on race, crime, transgender rights, abortion, and his promotion of false claims about COVID-19.
Despite the controversy, many speakers at the memorial described his death as a catalyst that would “revitalize the conservative movement.”
A Divided America
The service underscored the deep political divides in the U.S. Many on the right blamed Kirk’s assassination on what they called the “radical left” and political violence. Trump echoed this theme, using his remarks to criticize Democrats and the state of American cities.
At the same time, critics have accused the Trump administration of exploiting Kirk’s death to justify crackdowns on civil liberties.
The alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, has been charged with murder and faces the death penalty. Officials have not yet revealed a motive.
Carrying the Torch
Closing her remarks, Erika Kirk said her husband’s death was sparking not unrest, but revival:
“These past 10 days after Charlie’s assassination, we didn’t see violence. We didn’t see rioting. Instead, we saw what Charlie always prayed for — revival in this country.”
Trump, embracing her on stage after his speech, vowed that Kirk’s mission would not be forgotten. “None of us will ever forget Charlie,” he said.