Photo: Kurk Kretzschmar
Thousands of mourners have gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday (September 21) for the memorial service of Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated earlier this month in Utah. The service is expected to be attended by over 100,000 people, and will feature speeches from President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other notable Republicans, including Kirk's widow, Erika, who now leads Turning Point USA.
The event was held under tight security, comparable to that of a Super Bowl, due to the presence of high-profile figures and the large crowd. Worship music played as attendees, many of whom were young conservatives inspired by Kirk's message, gathered to pay their respects.
Kirk, known for founding Turning Point USA, was shot on September 10 while speaking at a university event in Utah. The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, has been charged with murder and faces the death penalty if convicted. The shooting has sparked a national debate on violence and free speech, with President Trump blaming the "radical left" for Kirk's death.
PBS NewsHour reported that President Trump credited Kirk with playing a pivotal role in his 2024 election victory and expressed his determination to honor Kirk's legacy. Erika Kirk vows to continue her husband's work with Turning Point USA.