Glendale, AZ – Thousands gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, September 21, 2025, to attend the funeral service for Charlie Kirk, the prominent conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA. The service, which drew a massive crowd, was marked by heightened security and featured a lineup of high-profile speakers, including President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. The event, which began at 11 a.m. local time, was also live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
The funeral service was described as having a scale and security level comparable to a state funeral or a Super Bowl, reflecting the significant impact Kirk had within conservative circles. President Trump, who departed for Arizona earlier in the day, addressed the attendees, stating it would be a "tough day" but that they were there to "celebrate the life of a great man." Other notable speakers included Vice President Vance, who had played a leading role in the mourning process, even transporting Kirk's casket on Air Force Two, as well as several members of the Cabinet, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and former Fox host Tucker Carlson were also among the speakers.
Kirk was assassinated on September 10, 2025, while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University. The outdoor "Prove Me Wrong" debate was the first stop of the season for Turning Point USA's American Comeback Tour. He was fatally shot through the neck, and the accused gunman, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was apprehended the following day. The assassination sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with many condemning the act of political violence and calling for unity.
The scale of the funeral arrangements also highlighted Kirk's influence in mobilizing young voters for the conservative movement. Turning Point USA announced that over 200,000 people expressed interest in attending the service, though the stadium's capacity is around 73,000, with additional overflow seating available. Prohibited items at the venue included aerosols, firearms, and glass containers, among others, underscoring the extensive security measures in place.
Following Kirk's death, his widow, Erika Kirk, vowed to continue his work, stating that the movement he built would not die and that Turning Point USA would proceed with its planned events. The events surrounding Kirk's death and funeral have also drawn attention from extremist groups, with some neo-Nazi organizations attempting to capitalize on his killing for recruitment purposes. The funeral service is expected to provide a glimpse into the future of conservative politics as the nation remains deeply polarized. Kirk is slated to be laid to rest in Phoenix, Arizona, his adoptive hometown.
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