Ivanka Trump says Charlie Kirk represented 'the kind of politics we should aspire to'

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, said on Friday, September 12, that Charlie Kirk was "a champion for debate" and he represented "the kind of politics we should aspire to."

The 31-year-old conservative commentator was fatally shot on his neck on Wednesday, September 10, as he attended a Turning Point USA event in Orem, Utah. The suspect was arrested on Friday, September 12, and was identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.

Ivanka Trump says Charlie Kirk's tongue and brain were his 'sword'

During a segment on CNBC on Friday, Ivanka Trump said, "It's unconscionable what transpired. I've known Charlie for approaching a decade now, and he was a good man. He was a champion for debate and dialogue, and free speech — the cornerstone of democracy. He represents the kind of politics we should aspire to where you are not afraid of people who disagree with you, infact you welcome them into conversation."

"You are not afraid to have your opinions changed when a better argument is put to you. Once we stop talking to one another it all breaks down," she added.

Ivanka further said, "Once we are afraid of somebody's ability to speak... and Charlie was one of the best. His tongue, his brain that was his sword."

"It's heartbreaking. Like the rest of this country my heart is with his beloved wife, Erika. He loved her so much, and his beautiful children," she concluded.

Charlie Kirk's widow Erika thanks Trump as she breaks silence in emotional tribute

Charlie Kirk's wife, Erika Kirk, thanked President Donald Trump on Friday during her first public words since her husband was shot dead on Wednesday in Utah.

Erika stood at a podium next to her late husband’s podcasting chair in Phoenix, Arizona, during an emotional appearance in front of reporters.

"I want to thank President Trump and his incredible family. Mr President, my husband loved you. And he knew that you loved him, too. He did. Your friendship was amazing. You supported him so well," she said.

Meanwhile, the President, during an appearance on 'Fox & Friends' on Friday, called Charlie Kirk an "unbelievable warrior" and "a great man" who is going to be "more important because of what happened".

Erika also thanked Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance for "their love and support".

She said, "You guys honored my husband so well, bringing him home."

JD and Usha Vance accompanied Kirk on Friday, as she flew alongside her husband’s body from Utah to Arizona.

During her emotional speech on Friday, Erika added, "To everyone listening tonight across America, the movement my husband built will not die."

"It won't. I refuse to let that happen. … No one will ever forget my husband's name. And I will make sure of it. It will become stronger. Bolder. Louder and greater than ever. My husband's mission will not end. Not even for a moment," she said.

Erika added, "My husband's voice will remain, and it will ring out louder and more clearly than ever. And his wisdom will endure."