Donald Trump delivered a speech at a memorial event for Charlie Kirk, facing criticism for the content of his address.
Thousands gathered at State Farm Stadium in Arizona on Sunday to honor the far-right activist Charlie Kirk. The event was organized by Turning Point US after Kirk was tragically shot in the neck while addressing a rally at a college campus in Utah on September 10.
Among the speakers were President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, alongside others such as Tucker Carlson and Tulsi Gabbard.
Kirk was known for his strong views on various topics, including the US civil rights movement, which he described as a ‘mistake.’ He also held controversial opinions on women’s reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and gun violence, the latter of which he deemed ‘worth it’ to preserve Second Amendment rights.
Criticism has arisen over Trump’s remarks at the memorial, which some consider ‘inappropriate’ for such an event.
In his typical rambling, stream-of-consciousness manner, Trump touched on topics like ‘hating his opponents,’ his tariffs policy, and autism.
Trump said to the crowd, “He [Kirk] did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don’t want the best for them. I’m sorry.”
He also discussed his administration’s tariffs policy, stating, “Tariffs are making us rich again. Richer than anybody ever thought was possible. And the only one challenging them are people that hate our country or foreign countries that are paying a price.”
In a peculiar moment, Trump hinted at a ‘big announcement,’ saying, “I think we found an answer to autism, how about that?”
The president also revealed that Kirk would be posthumously awarded the presidential medal of freedom.
Other speakers included Kirk’s wife, Erika Kirk, who expressed forgiveness towards her husband’s killer, stating, “I forgive him because it is what Christ did. Father, forgive them, for they not know what they do.”
Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested and charged in connection with Kirk’s death on September 10, with prosecutors indicating they will seek the death penalty.