JD Vance says Charlie Kirk’s memorial became a ‘revival’ not a funeral

JD Vance praised Charlie Kirk’s impact at his memorial, saying Republicans owe victories to him and calling the service a revival
PUBLISHED SEP 21, 2025
JD Vance said the administration owes its success to Charlie Kirk, who built an organization that reshaped American politics (LiveNOW from FOX/YouTube Screengrab, Getty Images)
JD Vance said the administration owes its success to Charlie Kirk, who built an organization that reshaped American politics (LiveNOW from FOX/YouTube Screengrab, Getty Images)

GLENDALE, ARIZONA: Vice President JD Vance spoke at the memorial service of Charlie Kirk, praising his late friend’s role in reshaping American politics and faith.

The service took place at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, where leaders gathered to honor Kirk’s influence.



 

JD Vance says Republicans owe victories to Charlie Kirk

Vance noted that the administration’s presence at the service was proof of Kirk’s lasting impact. He said Republicans’ recent victories would not have been possible without Kirk’s efforts.

“Our whole administration is here, but not just because we love Charlie as a friend, even though we did, but because we know we wouldn’t be here without him,” said Vance. “Charlie built an organization that reshaped the balance of our politics.”

U.S. Vice President-elect JD Vance (C) on stage with Charlie Kirk during the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball at the Salamander Hotel on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president on January 20. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images)
Vice President JD Vance on stage with Charlie Kirk during the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball at the Salamander Hotel on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

JD Vance says he’s talked to Jesus more since Charlie Kirk’s death

Vance told the crowd that Kirk’s foundation was his Christian faith and said Kirk had inspired him personally.

“Because of Charlie, I have talked more about Jesus Christ the past two weeks than I have my entire time in public office,” Vance said.

“Most of all, Charlie brought the truth that Jesus Christ was the King of Kings. And that all truth flowed from this first and most important one," he added. Vance emphasized that the gathering was not a funeral but a bold declaration of Kirk’s mission. 

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 19: Charlie Kirk (R) and and his wife Erika Lane Frantzve (L) on stage during the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball at the Salamander Hotel on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images)
Charlie Kirk and his wife Erika Lane Frantzve on stage during the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball at the Salamander Hotel on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

“The evil murderer who took Charlie from us expected us to have a funeral today, and instead, my friends, we have had a revival and celebration of Charlie Kirk and his Lord, Jesus Christ,” said Vance. “They tried to silence my — our — friend, Charlie Kirk; today, we speak for Charlie louder than ever.”

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