Trump, Vance Honor Charlie Kirk at Massive Arizona Funeral

Thousands gather at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, as President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance lead tributes for the slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sunday.

Thousands attend memorial

  • Doors opened at 8 a.m. PT for overflow at Desert Diamond Arena
  • Service began at 11 a.m. PT, live-streamed on major networks

President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance headlined a public funeral for Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday. The gathering marked the culmination of national grief following Kirk’s assassination on Sept. 10.

Sunday’s service underscored Kirk’s impact on the grassroots conservative movement he founded as a teenager and celebrated his legacy at a venue capable of hosting over 70,000 attendees. Faith-based singers and political allies framed the event as both a commemoration and a call to advance Kirk’s mission.

Key Speakers and Tributes

  • Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow and incoming TPUSA CEO, opened the service with personal reflections.
  • President Trump praised Kirk as “a patriot and friend,” sharing anecdotes from their decade-long alliance.
  • Vice President Vance called Kirk’s shooting a “national tragedy” and vowed to uphold his vision.
  • Senior officials including Susie Wiles, Stephen Miller, Marco Rubio and Tulsi Gabbard delivered remarks.
  • Christian worship music by Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe and others framed Kirk’s faith commitments.

Security and Logistics

Strict no-bag and no-cameras policies were enforced under a Special Event Assessment Rating Level 1 designation. Thousands queued before sunrise under tight checkpoint screenings. Indoor overflow at nearby Desert Diamond Arena accommodated overflow crowds.

National Repercussions

Kirk’s 31-year-old passing on a Utah college campus has galvanized conservative leaders to decry political violence. Tributes spilled across social media and vigils nationwide. In addition to calls for justice in state court, some allies have urged federal action against groups they blame for fostering extremism.

Looking Ahead

Erika Kirk vowed to expand Turning Point USA in her husband’s stead, calling his death “a rallying cry” for young conservatives. As the sun set on Glendale, attendees departed with renewed resolve to carry forward the movement Charlie Kirk built.