PHOENIX, AZ – September 21, 2025 – Former President Donald Trump praised the late Charlie Kirk as “a great man” and recalled his unwavering dedication to the conservative movement ahead of a memorial service held Sunday in Arizona. Trump’s remarks came as Turning Point USA,the institution founded by Kirk,released guidelines for attendees of the memorial at State Farm Stadium.
Trump told an audience that Kirk “had an army” of supporters who deeply admired his work. He recounted Kirk’s persistent requests for his participation in events, even on short notice. “He’d say, ‘President, could you come tomorrow and make a speech?’ I said, ‘Charlie, I’m president, you’ve got to give me a little notice.’ He said,’Well,would it be possible,they’d love to see you?’ Usually I tried to do it too. he was unbelievable.” Trump expressed the profound sense of loss felt by Kirk’s followers, stating, “They loved him so much.I mean, they’re devastated right now. Everybody is devastated.” He confirmed he would attend the memorial, acknowledging, “there are no words to really describe what happened. It should never have happened to him.”
Turning Point USA announced saturday night that attendees of the memorial service are requested to wear “Sunday Best” in red,white,or blue. A strict no-bag policy will be enforced; even clear bags typically permitted at the stadium will not be allowed. Doors open at 8 a.m. local time, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, and indoor overflow at Desert Diamond Arena. TPUSA requested attendees carpool due to limited parking and expressed appreciation for patience given “enhanced security measures.” The organization also asked that flowers and material items be delivered to TPUSA headquarters in Phoenix, and suggested donations to TPUSA in lieu of flowers.
Charlie Kirk, 33, was assassinated on September 10th while hosting a TPUSA event at Utah Valley university. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012, building it into a prominent organization within the conservative youth movement.
