Trump honors Kirk: ‘He never hated his rivals. … That’s where I differed’

Trump Praises Charlie Kirk at Arizona Event

On Sunday, former President Trump celebrated conservative activist Charlie Kirk, commending him for his willingness to engage in debate and the movement he’s cultivated.

Although the event at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, had a somewhat somber tone, Trump’s speech felt reminiscent of his typical campaign rallies. He took jabs at his political opponents, even while acknowledging that Kirk had a more amicable approach.

“He didn’t hate his enemies; he wished the best for them,” Trump remarked. “That’s where I differ from Charlie. I hate my enemies and don’t have any desire to do my best for them. Sorry about that.”

Trump mentioned that Kirk referred to his political opponents as “left,” but preferred labels like “radical left” or “radical left madman.”

In the context of collaborating on the “American Health Again Again” initiative with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump hinted at an upcoming announcement about autism scheduled for Monday.

He claimed that Democrats were “deceived like a dog” during the 2020 election, a sentiment that Kirk echoed post-campaign.

The former president criticized Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and asserted that federal actions against crime in Chicago would be a point of pride for Kirk, who grew up in the area.

Trump also took a shot at late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, who faced backlash after the head of the Federal Communications Commission threatened legal action over Kimmel’s remarks regarding Kirk’s passing.

Kirk was tragically shot earlier this month at an event at Utah Valley University. Trump called for the death penalty for the suspected shooter, Tyler Robinson.

“This was an attack on our most sacred, God-given freedoms and rights. The gun was aimed at him, but the bullet affects all of us,” Trump said. “The assassin’s attempt failed because Charlie’s message remains loud and is now more powerful than ever.”