Thousands Gather to Celebrate Life of Charlie Kirk
Thousands of people gathered in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday to celebrate the life of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The memorial service featured the top GOP leaders in the country, paired with a strong religious component reflective of Kirk's faith. Here is a look back at what many are calling a "religious revival."
President Trump Headlines Kirk Memorial Service
President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and more top White House officials were in attendance at State Farm Stadium on Sunday to pay tribute to Kirk. The controversial activist was shot and killed 11 days prior while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University. The host of speakers shared personal accounts of the 31-year-old with a mix of sadness, anger, and resolve. Mourners gathered for hours before the start of the service, dressed in red, white, and blue to honor Kirk's commitment to his country.
Trump was the headline speaker at the memorial, using the pulpit to honor Kirk's life and legacy while also taking on a distinct political edge. While most of the speakers at the event avoided political rhetoric, Trump did not shy away from blaming the assassination on left-wing extremists. The president also used the time to preview some of the upcoming goals of his administration, including efforts to crack down on crime in Chicago.
Vance took on a more religious tone when addressing the packed stadium. The vice president said that the shooter who took Kirk's life was expecting a funeral today. Instead, the day was a "revival and celebration of Charlie Kirk, and his lord, Jesus Christ."
Other speakers from the MAGA world included Donald Trump Jr., Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and House Speaker Mike Johnson. At one point, Trump praised the gathering of leaders, comparing it to an "old-time revival." The tone of the political portion was reminiscent of a Trump campaign rally.
White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller spoke the most combatively, using the stage to harness the anger felt by many in Kirk's circle. Miller vowed that the Trump administration would "channel all of the anger" and use the feelings to uproot the terrorist networks.
Right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson also spoke at the service, touching on the power of martyrdom. Johnson spoke about his belief that God was using this moment and Kirk to advance his kingdom. The theme of Kirk being a martyr was echoed by many speakers throughout the service.
Erika Kirk Vows to Continue Mission
Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, drew the biggest response from the audience, delivering an emotional speech and vowing to continue her late husband's work and mission. The most powerful moment of her eulogy came when she offered forgiveness to Kirk's assassin, quoting Jesus by saying, "Father, forgive them, for they not know what they do." The statement brought the crowd to their feet. She was careful not to name the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.
The eulogy turned personal when Erika Kirk described the moments that she learned of her husband's assassination. She said that she was comforted knowing that he did not suffer. She went on to praise Kirk's supporters for not rioting after he was killed.
Erika Kirk also vowed to complete her husband's work. Upon her husband's death, she was appointed to take over his role as CEO and chair of the board of Turning Point USA. Just a few hours after speaking, she sent an email to supporters asking them to donate to the cause of the organization.
Kirk leaves behind his wife and two small children.
Trump and Musk Spotted Together
The president and Elon Musk were also spotted sitting next to each other in Trump's suite. The interaction was notable as the former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief had been exchanging barbs following Musk's departure from his post in the administration. The reunion of the two is believed to be the first time that they have been spotted together in public since the fallout in May. The pair have engaged in high-profile disagreements over social media regarding Trump's policy agenda bill. Musk has gone so far as to threaten to start a new political party.
Kirk was known as a mediator between Trump and Musk in recent months. It was reported that Musk was receptive to Kirk's feedback and advice about how to approach Trump.
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