Charlie Kirk memorial: Trump says he ‘hates’ his opponents at event attended by tens of thousands

GLENDALE, Arizona, Sept 21 – President Donald Trump told a massive crowd that he “hates” his political opponents during a public memorial service honoring conservative youth leader Charlie Kirk. The gathering, which drew tens of thousands to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, blended moments of grief with heavy doses of political theater, underscoring the complicated legacy of Kirk and his role in shaping the conservative movement.

Trump, who delivered the final speech of the day following tributes from Vice President JD Vance, several cabinet members, and close allies, reflected on Kirk’s life while weaving in campaign-style rhetoric. His comments struck a stark contrast with those of Kirk’s widow, Erika, who emphasized forgiveness during her emotional address. “Hatred cannot be met with more hatred,” she told those gathered. “The Gospel teaches us that the true response is love, love without limits, even toward those who oppose or harm us.”

In his remarks, Trump recalled that shortly before his death, Kirk had told a staff member he wanted to meet and engage with students who disagreed with him, rather than fight them. “In that private moment on his dying day, we find everything we need to know about who Charlie Kirk truly was,” Trump said, before pivoting. “He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponents, and I don’t want the best for them, I’m sorry.”

The statement drew both applause and discomfort, as Trump shifted between offering a eulogy and promoting his political agenda. At one point, he even teased a White House announcement on autism, claiming, “I think we found an answer to autism. Tomorrow we are going to be talking about it in the Oval Office.” He also said Kirk had urged him to send federal troops to Chicago, portraying it as one of Kirk’s final requests.

The memorial, held at the 63,000-seat venue also used for NFL games and major concerts, reflected both Kirk’s influence and the political moment. Red, white, and blue-clad supporters began lining up before sunrise. The event carried an atmosphere closer to a rally than a traditional service, complete with music, chants, and a celebratory tone despite the tragic circumstances.

JD Vance, speaking earlier, portrayed Kirk as a religious figure, calling him “a martyr for the Christian faith.” He framed the killing as an attack not just on Kirk but on Christianity itself. “They may have attempted to quiet my friend Charlie Kirk, yet today his voice echoes through us more powerfully than ever,” Vance said. “He was Athens and Jerusalem together – reason and faith in one person.”

Other tributes followed a similar line. Donald Trump Jr. described Kirk as part of a long tradition of people killed for their beliefs. White House adviser Stephen Miller declared Kirk “immortal” because his ideas would live on. “You thought you could kill Charlie Kirk. You have made him immortal. Millions will carry on his legacy,” Miller told the cheering audience.

Erika Kirk stressed that her husband’s death had sparked a wave of renewed Christian faith among his followers. She contrasted the reaction to his killing with past unrest after the deaths of figures like George Floyd or Martin Luther King Jr. “We saw revival,” she said. “This past week, we saw people open a Bible for the first time in years. We saw people attend church for the first time in their lives.”

Ordinary attendees also reflected on Kirk’s influence. Christina Sawick of Mesa said she had followed him since 2016. Wearing a hat that read “Trump was right about everything,” she explained she had left home at 3 a.m. to attend the service. “He didn’t sugarcoat anything,” she said. “He wanted everyone to be heard.” Jeffrey Barke, a physician from California, called his trip a “pilgrimage of sorts” and pledged to use his online presence to continue sharing Kirk’s message.

Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on September 10 during a campus event at Utah Valley University, where he was speaking to about 3,000 students as part of his “American Comeback” tour. Prosecutors have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with capital murder, alleging the killing was politically motivated, and have said they will seek the death penalty. Officials believe Robinson acted alone.

Kirk’s death has fueled anger and grief across conservative circles. Trump and his allies have pointed blame at Democrats, though no evidence has tied the suspect to any political group. Federal investigators have not found connections to leftwing organizations, despite speculation. Prosecutors indicated Robinson was motivated by resentment toward what he viewed as Kirk’s “hatred,” though the investigation is still ongoing.

The killing has intensified political tensions in an already divided nation. Supporters have begun targeting individuals who mocked or criticized Kirk, with reports of suspensions, firings, and disciplinary actions against teachers, students, journalists, and even late-night hosts. Critics say the crackdown resembles the very “cancel culture” Kirk often opposed.

Security at the Arizona memorial was among the tightest ever for such an event, with measures comparable to the Super Bowl. The Secret Service led operations, and on Saturday, a man carrying a gun and knife was detained outside the stadium. Officials said he claimed to be part of a private security detail for a guest but had not coordinated with authorities. While not considered a threat, the incident highlighted the tension surrounding the event.

For Trump and his movement, Kirk’s death has become both a rallying cry and a symbol of what they view as an assault on conservative values. For others, it has prompted reflection on the dangers of political violence and the blurred lines between faith, politics, and personal conviction.