'Charlie was martyred for his beliefs': Donald Trump pays tribute to the Kirks in State of the Union speech
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 25, 2026
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US President Donald Trump paid a touching tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk during his State of the Union address, honoring him as a martyr for his beliefs following his fatal shooting last September. Trump invited Kirk’s widow, Erika, as a special guest, prompting emotional applause and chants of “Charlie” from the audience. In his speech, Trump praised Kirk’s influence, particularly in inspiring young people to engage more deeply with their faith, while also calling for national unity and rejecting political violence in his memory.
Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was killed during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University in September 2025. His alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, faces the death penalty for the crime. Kirk’s life and death have had a significant impact on American culture; he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Freedom on what would have been his 32nd birthday. Erika Kirk, who married Charlie in 2021, has since taken on leadership roles within Turning Point USA, serving as CEO and chair of the board. The couple had two children together: a daughter born in August 2022 and a son born in May 2024.
Trump highlighted Kirk’s role in fostering a resurgence of religious faith among young people during his tenure. He emphasized that this spiritual renewal was partly due to Kirk’s influence, whom he described as a close friend. The president also used
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/25/2026