GLENDALE, Ariz. — President Donald Trump and key figures from his “Make America Great Again” movement gathered Sunday to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, whose recent death has sparked significant discussion about political violence in the United States. The memorial service, held at State Farm Stadium, attracted tens of thousands of attendees, including Vice President JD Vance and various young conservatives influenced by the 31-year-old Kirk.

As he departed the White House for the service, Trump remarked, “We’re going to celebrate the life of a great man today,” acknowledging the emotional weight of the occasion. Kirk was fatally shot on September 10 during an event at a college in Utah, an incident that has ignited debates surrounding violence, free speech, and political decency in a divided nation.

The service took place at the home of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, where Kirk’s organization, Turning Point, is based. Security measures were extensive, comparable to those seen at major events like the Super Bowl. Attendees began lining up outside the stadium before dawn, eager to pay their respects. Crystal Herman, who traveled from Branson, Missouri, expressed her sentiments, stating, “I think that this is going to change things, and I think he made such a difference. He deserves us to be here.”

In the wake of Kirk’s death, Trump has directed blame toward the “radical left,” suggesting they are responsible for the violence. He has also threatened to target liberal organizations and individuals who he believes have celebrated or downplayed Kirk’s assassination. Trump criticized House Democrats for opposing a resolution that honored Kirk, saying, “Who could vote against that? All (Republicans) were saying was ‘Please condemn the assassination of a human being.’”

The fallout from Kirk’s death has led to job losses for several individuals, including journalists and educators, as conservative activists and officials seek to address comments they find offensive. This has raised concerns about First Amendment rights, with the administration indicating it would take action against those making disparaging remarks. Notably, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show indefinitely following backlash over his comments regarding Kirk.

Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah, has been charged with Kirk’s murder and could face the death penalty if convicted. While authorities have not disclosed a clear motive, prosecutors noted that Robinson texted his partner after the shooting, stating he had “had enough” of Kirk’s perceived hatred.

Kirk founded Turning Point to engage young Christian conservatives, transforming it into a multimillion-dollar organization with significant influence. The large turnout at the memorial reflects his impact on conservative politics. Michael Link, 29, who attended the service, remarked, “I think he spoke on more than just politics. Now that he’s gone, it’s like who’s gonna speak for us now?”

Kirk’s influence extended beyond the U.S. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni praised him, stating, “He was very effective because he was convinced of his views and knew how to argue them.” However, Kirk was also a controversial figure, facing accusations of making racist and misogynistic statements, which some conservatives argue misrepresent his legacy.

Scheduled speakers at the memorial included Trump, Vance, and other prominent figures such as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Kirk’s widow, Erika, who has taken over leadership of Turning Point, also spoke, vowing that “the movement my husband built will not die.” The service featured music from well-known Christian artists, further emphasizing Kirk’s influence within that community.