President Trump called Kirk "immortal" and speakers called him a "martyr."
Charlie Kirk was remembered as a "martyr" and "warrior" by some of the leading lights of the conservative movement, the Trump administration, friends as well as his grieving widow during a packed memorial service in Arizona Sunday.
As President Trump and others noted, the service felt more like a "revival" rather than a memorial, and Kirk's connection to and efforts for his Christian faith were on full display throughout. Kirk was recalled for the movement among young conservatives that he helped spark, his willingness to debate and his fearlessness in the face of threats.
In a poignant moment, Kirk's widow, Erika said that she forgives her husband's alleged assassin.
Kirk, 31, founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and rose to become one of the most prominent conservative voices in the country. His influence, particularly with young people, helped propel Trump to office. But some of his comments on gun violence, LGBTQ issues, race and more often drew criticism from liberals and others.
While speaking at Charlie Kirk's memorial, President Donald Trump said violence comes "largely from the left."
Trump said Kirk talked to him about his previous death threats, but told Trump he "knew the risks" but would "never back down."
President Trump, in his remarks about Charlie Kirk, strayed from talking about the conservative activist at times, speaking at length about his own administration.
Trump discussed a forthcoming announcement about autism, which he said is going to be "one of the most important news conferences I'll ever have." He also touted his tariff policy and again aired grievances about the 2020 election.
President Trump, in his remarks, said he differs with Charlie Kirk on one point.
"He was a missionary with a noble spirit and a great, great purpose. He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That's where I disagree with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don't want the best for them," Trump said.
"I'm sorry, I am sorry, Erika. But now Erika can talk to me and the whole group, and maybe they can convince me that that's not right, but I can't stand my opponent," the president continued.
"On that terrible day, September 10, 2025, our greatest evangelist for American liberty became immortal," Trump said in his remarks. He's a martyr now for American freedom."
I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie Kirk, and neither now will history," Trump said.
