Trump praises Kirk as ‘martyr’ for freedom

UNITED States President Donald Trump praised Charlie Kirk as a “great American hero” and “martyr” for freedom, as he and other prominent conservatives gathered on Sunday evening to honour the slain conservative political activist whose work they say they must now advance.

- ASSOCIATED PRESS REPORTERS

The memorial service in Glendale, Arizona, for Mr Kirk, whom Mr Trump credits with playing a pivotal role in his 2024 election victory, drew tens of thousands of mourners, including US Vice President JD Vance, other senior administration officials and young conservatives shaped by the 31-year-old firebrand.

“He's a martyr now for America’s freedom,” Mr Trump said in his tribute. “I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie. And neither now will history.”

Speakers highlighted Mr Kirk's profound faith and his strong belief that young conservatives need to get married, build families and pass on their values to keep building their movement. They also repeatedly told conservative activists, sometimes in confrontational tones, that the best way to honour Mr Kirk was doubling down on his mission to move American politics further to the right.