By Eniola Amadu
President Donald Trump led tributes to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, praising him as a “great American hero” and a “martyr for freedom” during a massive memorial service that drew tens of thousands of mourners to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
The 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, who was gunned down at a Sept. 10 campus appearance in Utah, was credited by Trump as a driving force behind his 2024 election victory.
His killing has rattled conservatives, inflamed debate about free speech and political violence, and intensified fears of further unrest in a polarized nation.
READ ALSO: Trump warns Afghanistan over Bagram base as Kabul rejects demand
“He’s a martyr now for America’s freedom,” Trump told the crowd. “None of us will ever forget Charlie. And neither now will history.”
Vice President JD Vance, senior administration officials, and legions of young conservatives who saw Kirk as a mentor joined Trump at the five-hour service.
Speakers repeatedly urged the movement to redouble efforts to advance Kirk’s vision — building conservative strength through faith, family, and generational renewal.
“For Charlie, we must remember that he is a hero to the United States of America,” Vance said. “And he is a martyr for the Christian faith.”
The memorial blended elements of worship service and political rally.
The 63,400-seat NFL stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals and Turning Point’s headquarters city, filled to capacity with mourners wearing red, white, and blue.
Christian musicians including Chris Tomlin, Brandon Lake, and Phil Wickham led worship, while country singer Lee Greenwood performed “God Bless the U.S.A.” before Trump took the stage.
At times, the service carried the atmosphere of a megachurch revival, with the energy of a campaign rally.
Kirk’s widow, Erika, who announced she would assume leadership of Turning Point, struck a conciliatory tone.
“My husband wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life,” she said. “I forgive him.”
READ ALSO: Trump imposes $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications
Her words drew prolonged applause. Trump, however, injected a sharper edge in his own closing remarks, acknowledging he differed from Kirk’s approach toward opponents.
“Charlie did not hate his opponents; he wanted the best for them,” Trump said. “That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent, and I don’t want the best for them. I’m sorry, I am sorry Erika.”
