“My husband wanted to save young men like the one who took his life. I forgive him,” said Erika, 36, her voice breaking before more than 60,000 people at a memorial in State Farm Stadium, Arizona, on September 21.
Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA and a key ally of former President Donald Trump, was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with seven counts related to the attack and could face the death penalty.
“I forgive him because that is what God would do — and what Charlie would do,” Erika added. “The answer to hatred is not more hate.”
Trump, who attended the memorial behind bulletproof glass, praised Kirk as a man of “kindness” and “unyielding will.” He said Kirk had confided about threats to his life but never backed down, blaming political violence “mainly on the left.”
“He was like a missionary with a noble spirit and a higher purpose,” Trump said. “Charlie didn’t hate his opponents; he wished the best for them. I disagree with him there — I hate my opponents and I don’t wish them well.”
Trump concluded by inviting Erika back on stage, embracing her to a standing ovation.
Kirk had gained prominence among young conservatives for his fiery campus debates, often clashing with liberal students. He championed nationalist, Christian-centered politics and was known for controversial remarks about minorities, including transgender people, Muslims, and African Americans.
Investigators say Robinson told them he opened fire because Kirk had “spread hate.”