U.S. President Donald Trump praised conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a “martyr for American freedom” at a memorial service in Arizona on Sunday, while accusing the left of responsibility for his killing without offering evidence.
Tens of thousands filled State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, for a memorial that combined Christian music, emotional tributes and political rhetoric. The 63,000-seat arena appeared full, with mourners waving flags and many in “Make America Great Again” attire. Security was tight, with metal detectors and a large police presence.
Trump’s remarks diverged from the largely solemn tone of other speakers, turning the memorial into a campaign-style rally.
“The violence comes largely from the left,” he said, echoing claims he made before a suspect was detained.
He added, “He did not hate his opponents. That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponents.”
Kirk’s widow, Erika, who has assumed leadership of his group Turning Point USA, delivered an emotional eulogy, telling mourners her husband died “without regrets” and offering forgiveness to the 22-year-old charged with his murder.
“My husband Charlie wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life,” she said.
Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also spoke, underlining Kirk’s influence in conservative politics. Vance credited Kirk with mobilising young voters who helped secure Trump’s return to office.
Other speakers, including White House adviser Stephen Miller, struck a combative tone. “You have no idea the dragon you have awakened,” Miller said. “We will fight that much harder to save this civilization.”
Kirk, 31, was shot dead during a campus event in Utah on 10 September. The suspect, a 22-year-old student, has been charged with murder. Investigators are still seeking a motive, examining text messages and inscriptions on bullet casings that could reference groups across the political spectrum.
Civil rights groups had long criticised Kirk for rhetoric they said was racist, anti-immigrant and misogynistic, while supporters praised him as a defender of conservative values. His killing has fuelled concerns about rising political violence in the U.S.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told mourners that Kirk’s death showed “political fanatics” often resort to violence, but that his voice would now be “louder than ever.”
The memorial highlighted how Kirk’s killing has deepened partisan divides. Critics warned Trump’s rhetoric risks inflaming tensions further at a time of heightened political unrest.
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