Trump hails Charlie Kirk as a “great man” following his death
US President Donald Trump (79) announced to reporters: “Today we will celebrate the life of a great man.” Shortly thereafter, he flew to Arizona for the memorial service. “It will be a difficult day,” Trump declared before leaving the White House.
Eleven days after the fatal assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk (†31), over 200,000 people gathered at the Arizona Cardinals’ stadium in Glendale. Among the guests were Kirk’s widow Erika (36), Vice President J.D. Vance (41), Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (71), and numerous Republicans.
Kirk’s widow forgives assassin
A large portrait of Charlie Kirk adorned the stage. It depicted him with clasped hands. Bagpipers opened the ceremony with “Amazing Grace,” while many mourners held up signs reading, “Well done, good, faithful servant.” The mood was both poignant and respectful.
Erika Kirk’s most emotional scene was delivered. She spoke with a moving voice: “My husband, Charlie, wanted to save young men. Young men like the one who took his own life.” She recalled Jesus’ words: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Then, her voice choked with tears, she said, “This young man—I forgive him.” A long pause followed before tremendous applause erupted in the stadium. Erika added, “I forgive him because that’s what Christ did. And that’s what Charlie would do, too.”
Trump praises Kirk as “immortal”
Vice President Vance also paid tribute to Kirk. “In Charlie Kirk, we had a great American leader among us,” he exclaimed. He emphasized Kirk’s ability to live his faith and see differences as opportunities. “He loved God,” Vance told the massive crowd in Glendale.
Trump also spoke at the end. He called Kirk “immortal.” The president emphasized: “He was assassinated because he lived courageously and because he argued brilliantly. He did what was right for our nation.” Trump praised Kirk’s commitment to young people and his loyalty.
