Charlie Kirk memorial updates: 'I forgive him,' Erika Kirk says of alleged shooter
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.
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Turning Point USA COO: 'Now it's our turn'
Justin Streiff, the COO of Turning Point USA, said Kirk began with "nothing more than an idea and a folding table. And over 13 years of time and courage and faith, he built a movement that changed the world."
"Charlie reminded us that courage requires only a yes, and he said yes every single day, and now it's our turn," Streiff said.
Charlie Kirk will receive honorary college degree, Hillsdale College president says
While speaking at Charlie Kirk's memorial, Hillsdale College President Dr. Larry Arn said that the conservative activist, who took classes at the Michigan college, will receive an honorary degree from the school.
He said Kirk "can't be replaced" and that he "deserves this reward."
Kirk has talked openly about never graduating college, and wrote a book titled "The College Scam" criticizing higher education.
Arn also announced Kirk's children, a son who turned 1 in May and a daughter who turned 3 in August, will receive college scholarships.
Air Force One lands in Arizona
President Trump has arrived in Arizona for Charlie Kirk's memorial service. Air Force One landed moments ago at Luke Air Force Base, located just miles from State Farm Stadium. According to pool reporters traveling with the president, cabin televisions were playing footage from inside the stadium during the flight.
Elon Musk says he's 'honored' to be at Kirk's memorial
Along with top officials in government, many of the biggest names in MAGA politics and media are present at Charlie Kirk's memorial, including billionaire Elon Musk.
In a Post on X, Musk showed the thousands packed in State Farm Stadium to honor Kirk.
"Every seat in this giant arena that isn't roped off for security is packed to the ceiling. Honored to be here," Musk wrote.
Musk added that all the attendees are "all for Charlie Kirk."
Musk and Kirk worked closely together, including during the 2024 presidential campaign.
-ABC News' Will Steakin