President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance will address a memorial service for Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist who was tragically killed last week. The service is organized by Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Kirk, and is scheduled for Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, where the local NFL team, the Arizona Cardinals, plays.
The memorial is expected to draw a significant crowd, as the stadium has a capacity of over 63,000 people. Alongside Trump and Vance, several notable figures are set to speak, including Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, and key political figures such as White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. Other speakers will include Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller.
The event will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with doors opening at 08:00 local time. The program is set to begin at 11:00 local time. Attendees are encouraged to dress in “Sunday Best” attire, with a color theme of red, white, or blue.
Trump expressed his sorrow over Kirk’s death, stating, “A very sad weekend. We lost a great person.” He confirmed plans to travel to Arizona on Air Force One early Sunday morning with a group of supporters. In a significant honor, Trump will posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom during the service.
Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2023, while participating in an event at Utah Valley University. Authorities have arrested Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old suspect, on charges of murder. The state of Utah is pursuing the death penalty against Robinson, who faces a total of seven charges, including aggravated murder.
This memorial service not only commemorates Kirk’s contributions to conservative activism but also serves as a pivotal moment for those who admired him and his work. As his allies and supporters gather to pay their respects, the impact of his legacy continues to resonate within the political landscape.
