President Trump paid tribute to Charlie Kirk during his State of the Union address, crediting him with renewing religion in America.
“I’m very proud to say that during my time in office, both the first four years, and in particular this last year, there has been a tremendous renewal in religion, faith, Christianity and belief in God,” he said.
Erika Kirk, the widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, reacts during U.S. President Donald Trump’s State of the Union Erika Kirk, the widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, reacts during U.S. President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. REUTERS“This is especially true among young people, and a big part of that had to do with my great friend Charlie Kirk, great guy.”
He described Kirk as a “martyr” for his faith.
“Charlie was violently murdered by an assassin, and a martyr, really, for his beliefs. His wonderful wife, Erika, is with us tonight,” Trump said.
Lawmakers in the chamber shouted “Charlie, Charlie” as Erika Kirk stood, wiping tears from her eyes.
This photo taken on December 22, 2024 shows US right-wing activist Charlie Kirk speaking on stage at America Fest 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. AFP via Getty ImagesTrump had invited her to watch his remarks in the House Chamber.
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on September 10th when speaking to an event at Utah Valley University.
Trump invoked Kirk’s name as he called for an end to political violence.
“In Charlie’s memory, we must all come together to reaffirm that America is one nation under god, and we must totally reject political violence of any kind,” Trump said in his speech.
