Tens of thousands of people were drawn to a memorial service in Arizona for Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist who was shot dead earlier in the month. The service was held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, a venue for which overflow space was arranged.
Donald Trump was joined by other Republicans, including Vice President JD Vance, in delivering addresses. Murk Kirk was described by Trump as an “American martyr.” Erika Kirk, who was recently named chief executive of Turning Point USA after her husband’s death, was also among those that spoke. It was announced by her that the killer was forgiven.
The service was declared by the Department of Homeland Security to be an event of “the highest national significance,” and tight security measures were put in place. It was stated by Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff, that a “dragon” had been awakened, and that what had been made was immortal.
Lines were begun before dawn to gain entry, and pleas were made online to reach capacity inside the stadium. The accused murderer, Tyler Robinson, was charged with the killing. Motives were described by law enforcement as involving hatred.