Dr. Ben Carson addressed Charlie Kirk’s memorial service, highlighting the timing of the shooting that occurred at 12:24 p.m. During his remarks, Carson referenced John 12:24, stating, “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” The former Republican presidential candidate and former Trump administration transport secretary delivered the speech at the event, which marked the first time a prominent political figure publicly addressed Kirk’s death. Carson’s comments included a subtle critique of Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who had previously described Kirk as “ignorant,” though he did not name her directly. The service featured a contrast between Carson’s measured tone and the earlier remarks of Benny Johnson, who received a mixed reception from the audience.