A long line of speakers praise Kirk as a family man and devoted Christian during a ceremony that resembles a mix of a meeting in a mega church and a Trump rally.
I know that I speak for everyone here when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie Kirk, and now history will not either. When Charlie is now reunited with his creator in heaven, his voice will echo through generations and his name will live on forever, says President Trump.
Right-wing debater Charlie Kirk was a co-founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA, where his widow Erika Kirk now takes over the leadership role. He was shot dead on September 10 when he spoke at Utah Valley University in the USA.
Forgives suspected murderer
One moment Charlie did what he loved, argued and debated on campus, fought for the Christian gospel and the truth, in front of a large crowd of people. Then he blinked and saw his savior in paradise, says Erika Kirk, visibly moved.
22-year-old Tyler Robinson from Utah is being held in custody, suspected of murdering Kirk and risks the death penalty if convicted. His motive is still unclear.
I forgive him, says Erika Kirk.
Kirk – who Donald Trump attributes a crucial role in his election victory in 2024 – created controversy with statements that his critics have called racist, misogynistic and transphobic. Conservatives mean that Kirk's critics are demonizing a leader they see as inspiring. The murder of Kirk has created debate about political violence and freedom of speech in a time of deep political division.
”Became a martyr”
The memorial service for Kirk is being held at the sports arena State Farm Stadium in Glendale, home ground for the NFL team Arizona Cardinals, with strict security measures similar to those at the Super Bowl.
My friend became a martyr because he used his voice in peaceful dialogue, says Michael McCoy, who was Kirk's personal chief, during the ceremony. Others mean that Kirk died as a warrior in a "spiritual war".
”Our enemies cannot understand”
At the memorial service, Vice President JD Vance, Defense Minister Pete Hegseth, Foreign Minister Marco Rubio, and other prominent right-wing politicians also speak.
The murder of Kirk has raised concerns among some Americans that Trump is trying to exploit the murder to silence critics. Trump has accused the "radical left" of Kirk's death. Several people have lost their jobs after comments about Kirk that are considered offensive. ABC also paused Jimmy Kimmel's talk show after criticism from Trump supporters and the head of the US Communications Authority (FCC).
