President Donald Trump delivered a speech at the memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sunday evening, praising the late figure as a “great American hero” and emphasizing his dedication to freedom and justice. Trump described Kirk’s killer as a “radicalized, cold-blooded monster,” stating that Kirk was “violently killed because he spoke for freedom and justice, for God, country, for reason, and for common sense.”
Trump compared the event to an “old-time revival,” highlighting Kirk’s ability to draw large crowds during his lifetime and after his death. He noted that prominent government figures attended the service, saying, “This is like an old-time revival, isn’t it?” and remarked on the “big crowd” gathered. The president also shared anecdotes about Kirk’s passion for America, declaring, “Charlie Kirk loved America with everything he had,” and adding, “As we can see so clearly today, America loved Charlie Kirk.”
During his remarks, Trump acknowledged Kirk’s generosity, stating, “He always gave more than he took,” but diverged from Kirk’s approach on empathy toward opponents. “He was a missionary with a noble spirit… He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them,” Trump said, before adding, “That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent. And I don’t want the best for them.” The president offered an apologetic shrug to Kirk’s wife, Erika, stating, “I can’t stand my opponent,” and claimed it was “not in my DNA.”
Trump concluded by asserting that Kirk’s message is “bigger than ever” and that he is now “eternal,” while urging the crowd that “right now, Charlie Kirk is in heaven.” He later invited Erika Kirk onstage for a final gesture of support.