President Donald Trump recalls his last conversation with Charlie Kirk before the activist’s assassination, calling him a patriot and promising to honor his legacy.
President Donald Trump has revealed the final conversation he shared with conservative activist Charlie Kirk before Kirk’s tragic assassination earlier this month.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on September 10 while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University during the launch of his American Comeback Tour. Investigators say the alleged shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, fired a bolt-action rifle from a nearby rooftop. He was later arrested and is currently in custody.
“He Didn’t Deserve This”
Speaking to reporters, Trump described Kirk as a close friend, a “patriot,” and a “martyr for truth and freedom.” He recounted how Kirk often called him personally to request his presence at Turning Point USA events.
“The last time I spoke to him, he said, ‘Sir, could you get to Phoenix tomorrow?’ I told him, ‘Charlie, I’m the President of the United States, you can’t just call me and ask me to come tomorrow,’” Trump recalled with a laugh. “But I usually ended up going. He was a great guy and he didn’t deserve this. Believe me.”
Funeral and National Tribute
Kirk’s body was flown home to Phoenix on Air Force Two, accompanied by his widow Erika and Vice President JD Vance. His memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 21, at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, which seats more than 60,000 people.
Trump confirmed he will attend the service aboard Air Force One, and also announced he will posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Leaders Honor Kirk’s Legacy
Vice President Vance hosted a special episode of The Charlie Kirk Show from the White House, blaming the killing on “a destructive moment of left-wing extremism.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also praised Kirk, calling him a “great young man” with “enormous influence on students across the country.”
Meanwhile, Erika Kirk vowed to continue her late husband’s mission, telling supporters:
“If you thought his work was powerful before, you have no idea what you’ve just unleashed across this country and the world.”
Kirk will be laid to rest in Arizona, home of Turning Point USA and the place where he lived with Erika and their two young children.
