Donald Trump used a memorial service for Charlie Kirk to attack his political opponents, delivering a speech that was part tribute and part catalogue of grievances. Addressing tens of thousands of mourners at the State Farm arena in Glendale, Arizona, the president praised Kirk as an 'American martyr' and 'a giant of his generation', but also railed against the 'radical left' and Joe Biden in a freewheeling address reminiscent of a campaign rally.
Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, publicly forgave the person charged with killing her husband. 'That man, that young man, I forgive him,' she told the crowd. 'I forgive him because it was what Christ did and it is what Charlie would do.' Her remarks drew tears from many in the stadium, including Trump.
The event, attended by an estimated 100,000 people, mixed spiritual revival with political rallying. Speakers included Vice-President JD Vance, who made references to anti-abortion sentiments and family values, and Donald Trump Jr, who claimed 'we don't silence' opponents. Other notable speakers included Pete Hegseth, Marco Rubio and Stephen Miller, who told unspecified 'enemies': 'You are nothing. You are wickedness.'
Trump's speech also touched on sending troops to Chicago, a major autism announcement, and the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show. He could not resist a dig at his predecessor, saying: 'When Joe Biden used to get up, remember the speeches, we will stop Maga... I said: Can somebody inform him that Maga means make America great again?'
Elon Musk was spotted meeting Trump on the sidelines of the event, shaking hands months after a public falling out. The memorial lasted more than 12 hours, with some attendees arriving before dawn. Several people left while Trump was still speaking, as the president's tribute started about an hour behind schedule.
