President Donald Trump delivered one of the most powerful tributes yet to Charlie Kirk at Sunday’s memorial, calling him a martyr for American freedom and pledging to award him the nation’s highest civilian honor—the Presidential Medal of Freedom. That’s right, Charlie Kirk will take his place in history where he belongs: as one of America’s great defenders.
“Charles James Kirk was murdered by a radicalized, cold-blooded monster for speaking the truth that was in his heart,” Trump told the tens of thousands packed into State Farm Stadium and an adjacent arena. “Our greatest evangelist for American liberty became immortal. He’s a martyr now for American freedom.”
Trump spoke directly to Erika Kirk and her children, promising the nation would honor their father forever. He also comforted Charlie’s parents, reminding them that in just 31 short years, their son had brought more good and love into the world than most people ever could.
The president traced Charlie’s journey from a young Chicago kid inspired by Rush Limbaugh, to launching Turning Point USA at age 18 with just $1,800 and a folding card table bearing three bold words: Big Government Sucks. With no money, living out of basements, working 18-hour days without pay, Charlie proved what grit and conviction can achieve.
Over the years, he built a national movement that energized youth like never before. By 2024, thanks in part to Charlie, Trump’s campaign won more young voters than any Republican candidate in U.S. history. As Trump recalled, Charlie was one of the few who always gave more than he took—“a giver, much more than a taker.”
Even facing constant threats and protests from radical activists, Charlie refused to back down. Just hours before his death, he texted a staffer: “I’m not here to fight them. I want to know them and love them.” That’s leadership rooted in courage and faith.
Announcing the Medal of Freedom, Trump said: “Charlie Kirk started with only an idea to change minds on college campuses, and instead he ended up with a far greater achievement: changing history.” Around the globe—from Canada to South Korea to Europe—vigils have honored his life and message.
Trump closed with words that will resonate across generations: “Charlie Kirk rests in glory in heaven for all eternity. We grieve for the friend and leader that we have lost, but we go forward, strengthened by his faith and inspired by his example to defend the country he lived for, the freedoms he died for, and the values in which he so deeply believed.”
Charlie Kirk’s story reminds us of something too many forget: one person, with faith, courage, and love of country, really can change the course of history. And Charlie did.
