Charlie Kirk Memorial: 'I Forgive Him,' Says Erika Kirk About Alleged Shooter

Memorial Service for Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk

A memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk is taking place on Sunday, just over a week after his murder sent shockwaves through American politics. The event, held at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, has drawn tens of thousands of mourners. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and several top administration officials are set to speak at the gathering.

Charlie Kirk, who was 31 years old, founded Turning Point USA at the age of 18 and became one of the most prominent conservative voices in the country. His influence, especially among young people, played a significant role in helping Donald Trump secure the presidency. However, some of his comments on gun violence, LGBTQ issues, and race often drew criticism from liberals and others.

Trump's Remarks at the Memorial

During the memorial, President Donald Trump addressed the crowd, emphasizing that violence comes "largely from the left." He mentioned that Kirk had spoken to him about previous death threats but assured Trump that he "knew the risks" and would "never back down."

Trump also took the opportunity to discuss topics beyond Kirk’s legacy, including an upcoming announcement about autism, which he described as "one of the most important news conferences I'll ever have." He also highlighted his tariff policies and reiterated his grievances regarding the 2020 election.

In a notable moment, Trump expressed a difference of opinion with Kirk, stating, "He was a missionary with a noble spirit and a great, great purpose. He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That's where I disagree with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don't want the best for them." He later added, "I'm sorry, I am sorry, Erika. But now Erika can talk to me and the whole group, and maybe they can convince me that that's not right, but I can't stand my opponent."

Trump Calls Kirk a Martyr for American Freedom

Trump honored Kirk by calling him "a martyr now for American freedom." He said, "On that terrible day, September 10, 2025, our greatest evangelist for American liberty became immortal." He continued, "I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie Kirk, and neither now will history."

As the event began, Trump addressed the crowd, stating, "Today, America is a nation in grief, a nation in shock and a nation in mourning."

Erika Kirk Takes Over Turning Point USA

Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, spoke about her new role as CEO of Turning Point USA, following her election earlier this week. She emphasized the importance of continuing the organization's mission, stating, "Charlie and I were united with purpose. His passion was my passion, and now this mission is my mission." She also stressed the need for debate and the significance of the First Amendment.

She said campus events will continue, noting that no assassin will ever stop the organization from defending free speech. "When you stop the conversation, when you stop the dialogue, this is what happens. When we lose the ability and the willingness to communicate, we get violence," she said.

Erika Kirk's Message of Forgiveness

Erika Kirk shared personal reflections on her husband's life and legacy. She revealed that Charlie Kirk's goal was to "save young men, just like the one who took his life." She expressed forgiveness toward Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect charged with killing Kirk. "That young man, I forgive him," she said, while holding back tears.

She also highlighted that the "greatest cause in Charlie's life was trying to revive the American family." She spoke about how Kirk encouraged young people to embrace God's vision for marriage and how it enriched their lives.

A Personal Farewell

Erika Kirk described the emotional moment when she first saw her husband's body. She said she experienced a "level of heartache I didn't even know existed." Despite the pain, she noted that she saw a "faintest smile" on his lips, indicating that he did not suffer or fear death.

As she took the stage, Erika wiped tears from her eyes and thanked the attendees for coming together to honor and celebrate her husband. "I bless all of you for coming here from all over the world to honor and celebrate my Charlie," she said.