MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JULY 14: Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk is seen onstage at the Fiserv Forum during preparations for the Republican National Convention (RNC) on July 14, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Delegates, politicians, and the Republican faithful are arriving in Milwaukee for the annual convention, concluding with former President Donald Trump accepting his party's presidential nomination. The RNC takes place from July 15-18. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
A memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk will feature speeches from former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The event is scheduled for this Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, according to an announcement from Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded. This follows the tragic news of his assassination last week, which has drawn national attention.
The stadium, which has a capacity of over 63,000 people, will host numerous high-profile speakers. Among them will be Erika Kirk, Kirk’s widow, along with several prominent officials. Attendees can expect remarks from White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller.
Doors will open at 08:00 local time, and the program is set to commence at 11:00 local time. The event will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and attendees are encouraged to dress in “Sunday Best – Red, White, or Blue,” reflecting the patriotic theme of the service.
Trump has expressed his intention to attend the memorial, stating, “A very sad weekend. We lost a great person.” He confirmed plans to travel to Arizona early Sunday morning on Air Force One with others accompanying him. In recognition of Kirk’s contributions, Trump will award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
Kirk was shot and killed on September 10, 2023, during an event at Utah Valley University. Authorities arrested Tyler Robinson, 22, on suspicion of murder. Robinson faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder, and Utah is pursuing the death penalty.
As the nation mourns the loss of a significant figure in conservative politics, this memorial service is expected to attract considerable attention and serve as a gathering point for supporters and allies of Kirk.
