Massive Turnout in Glendale
GLENDALE, Ariz. — Tens of thousands gathered Sunday at State Farm Stadium to honor the life of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Lines stretched over a mile outside the venue as supporters arrived early, many carrying American flags, wearing Make America Great Again hats, and donning shirts reading “I Am Charlie Kirk.”
The service marked one of the largest public memorials for a conservative figure in recent years.
Erika Kirk Steps Forward
Erika Kirk, widow of the late activist, addressed the crowd just days after being named the new CEO of Turning Point USA. Founded by Charlie in 2012, the organization has become one of the most influential conservative youth movements in America.
A large cross was brought onto the stage as attendees joined in prayer, singing, and remembrance. Supporters held candles and religious signs, underscoring Kirk’s identity as both a political voice and a man of faith.
President Trump’s Remarks
President Donald Trump headlined the service, calling Kirk a martyr for American freedom who was killed for defending liberty and truth.
“He was violently killed because he spoke for freedom and justice, for God and country, for reason and for common sense,” Trump said. “Charlie’s murder was not just an attack on one man or one movement — it was an attack on our entire nation.”
Trump emphasized that Kirk’s message had not been silenced. “The assassin failed in his quest — Charlie’s voice is now bigger, stronger, and more powerful than ever before.”
Other Leaders Speak
Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard were among the officials delivering tributes. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Deputy Chief Stephen Miller also spoke.
Each emphasized Kirk’s courage in engaging young Americans, debating openly on college campuses, and creating a national movement rooted in faith, family, and freedom.
A Lasting Legacy
Trump recalled a message Kirk sent to his staff shortly before his assassination on September 10 at Utah Valley University. When told critics were in the audience, Kirk replied, “I’m not here to fight them. I want them to know them and love them and I want to lead them into a great way of life in our country.”
For many, those words captured the essence of Kirk’s mission: to defend liberty without fear and to bring others into the fold of America’s founding principles.
The service concluded with calls for spiritual renewal and a pledge to carry forward the work Kirk began. As Trump declared, “Charlie Kirk started with only an idea to change minds on college campuses and ended up changing history.”
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
About the Author
