Trump’s Remarks at Tribute for Charlie Kirk in Arizona

President Donald Trump delivered a speech on Sunday at Charlie Kirk’s tribute service in Glendale, Arizona. He reflected on Kirk’s influential role in shaping Turning Point USA on university campuses and his broader impact on national politics. Trump highlighted Kirk’s dedication to conveying a conservative message at universities often dominated by non-conservative students and faculty, illustrating how these campuses evolved as Kirk created chapters and actively engaged with students.

“He took over a university campus that, on the surface, had a reputation for being very liberal—or ‘progressive,’ as they like to call themselves,” Trump remarked. “But, really, they were far from progressive. They were quite bothersome.”

Trump noted the rapid transformation of these campuses, stating, “Within two or three years, they became strongholds of conservatism. They lied about him because they were unwilling to listen or learn from him.”

“Wherever he goes, he wins debates. He wins people’s hearts. Yes, he even wins elections for the people. He was a key player for us, and honestly, we won the most significant election in our country’s history.”

Earlier in his address, Trump reminisced about Kirk’s early days as an activist. “Twelve years ago, Charlie showed up on a university campus in Wisconsin, which was quite liberal. He set up a simple card table with a sign that read: ‘Big Government Sucks.’ Can you believe that?” Trump said. “It wasn’t an easy task, but Charlie wasn’t motivated by money; that was never his focus.”

Trump emphasized Kirk’s resolve to foster dialogue and his readiness to confront opponents directly. “However, the essence of Charlie’s mission remained unchanged. He consistently encouraged those who disagreed with him to engage in conversation.”

Additionally, Trump spoke about Kirk’s advocacy for persecuted Christians and Jews on campus, noting that Kirk established chapters on over 2,200 campuses and addressed more than 1,000 churches.

Reflecting on Kirk’s character, Trump shared an anecdote from the day of his untimely death. “Just before arriving on campus that day, staff informed him about students who were vocally opposed. He wanted to convince them. That moment tells us so much about who Charlie really was. He embodied a missionary spirit with a noble purpose; he didn’t harbor hatred for his adversaries.”

“Charlie was remarkably successful, and his impact continued to grow. His mission became increasingly vital on campuses across the nation. He faced intense hatred while pursuing open dialogue,” Trump explained.

These comments were made during the tribute “Building Legacy: Remembering Charlie Kirk.” The audience greeted Trump with cheers and hymns as he was displayed on a Jumbotron. Before leaving Washington that day, Trump told reporters, “We’re here to celebrate the life of a remarkable man. He was young but had an incredible impact. We look forward to this. We hope to foster a sense of healing… it’s truly inspiring.”

Kirk’s widow, Erica, made her first public statement since his death. She pledged to continue his work, stating, “The movement my husband built will not die. I refuse to let that happen.” Following Kirk’s passing, Turning Point USA has seen a surge in chapter requests, with spokesman Andrew Corvette telling reporters that Kirk’s vision will be realized more rapidly than anyone could expect.