Smerconish Commends Erica Kirk’s Forgiveness During Emotional Ceremony

On Monday, CNN’s Michael Smerconish expressed admiration for Erica Kirk following her heartfelt speech at the memorial for her murdered husband, Charlie Kirk.

During her address, Erica Kirk spoke about forgiving Tyler Robinson, the man who assassinated her husband, emphasizing that her husband did not respond to hatred with more hatred. When host Brianna Kaylor asked Smerconish which part of the ceremony stood out to him for “CNN News Central,” he highlighted Erica’s message of forgiveness, calling her words “very valuable.”

“I honestly can’t say I could do what she did, but as someone of faith, I think about this whole concept of forgiveness. Erica truly rose to the occasion under immense emotional pressure, sharing many invaluable insights,” Smerconish remarked.

In her moving speech, Erica drew from the Bible, referencing Jesus Christ’s words on the cross, where he forgives those who wronged him. “On the cross, our Savior said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing,'” she stated, fighting back tears. “That young man… I’ll forgive him.”

Her emotional plea resonated with the audience, prompting a moment of applause that lasted about 45 seconds.

“What Christ did, I can do too. I forgive him, just like Charlie would. The answer to hatred isn’t more hatred,” Erica emphasized. “The gospel teaches us that love—love for our enemies and those who persecute us—should always prevail.”

Before extending her forgiveness to Robinson, Erica explained to the crowd gathered at the stadium why Charlie was so committed to reaching young men on university campuses. “Charlie deeply cared about saving lost boys in the West, young men who feel adrift, lacking direction and purpose,” she shared, occasionally choking on her words. “I once got lost in distractions, while anger and hatred consumed some.”

“Charlie aimed to help them. He wanted a haven like Turning Point USA for them. When he went to campus, his goal was to guide them toward a better path. My husband wanted to save a young man, just like the one who took his life.”