Erika Kirk Says She Forgives Her Husband’s Killer Minutes Before Trump Says He Differs from Charlie in This Way: ‘I Hate My Opponent’

Charlie Kirk’s wife, Erika Kirk, says she has forgiven the man accused of killing her husband — just 11 days after his death.

On Sunday, Sept. 21, Erika spoke at a memorial service for Charlie at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. She began by quoting one of his favorite Bible verses, Isaiah 6:8: “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Then, she expressed forgiveness toward the person accused of taking Charlie’s life.

Authorities say 22-year-old Tyler Robinson fatally shot Charlie Kirk while he was speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Robinson is being held in the Utah County Jail without bail.

“My husband, Charlie, he wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life,” Erika said during her speech.

She went on to share words of faith: “Our Savior said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’ That young man … I forgive him. I forgive him because it was what Christ did, and it’s what Charlie would do.”

Erika added, “The answer to hate is not hate. The answer we know from the gospel is love — always love. Love for our enemies and love for those who persecute us.”

Her tribute also touched on her marriage with Charlie, describing how they stayed strong even with his busy travel schedule. She spoke about the honor of stepping into her new role as CEO of Turning Point USA, the organization Charlie founded. Together, Erika and Charlie have two children: a daughter born in 2022 and a son born in 2024.

After Erika’s remarks, President Donald Trump addressed the crowd, honoring Charlie’s life and mission.

“Charlie Kirk truly was … he was a missionary with a noble spirit and a great, great purpose,” Trump said. “He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them.”

But Trump admitted he sees things differently: “That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don’t want the best for them. I’m sorry, Erika. Maybe you and others can convince me that’s not right, but I cannot stand my opponent.”

He ended on a lighter note, adding, “Charlie’s angry, looking down, he’s angry at me now.”