Viewers notice Trump sitting behind bulletproof glass at Charlie Kirk's memorial: 'Something rarely seen'

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: Heightened security measures took center stage at conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s memorial service on Sunday, September 21, as top officials, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, attended.

Many viewers watching the memorial broadcast quickly took to social media after spotting an unusual feature on stage. As musicians entertained the crowd before speeches by leading political figures, a podium stood at the center of the stage, appearing to be enclosed in bulletproof glass.

Speakers and VIPs shielded behind bulletproof glass

To ensure the safety of attendees and high-profile speakers, transparent safety glass surrounded the main podium, a rare setup even for indoor events.

President Trump sat in a luxury box behind multiple slabs of bulletproof glass while awaiting his turn to speak, alongside JD Vance and other senior officials.

“Security has been increased for nearly everyone since Kirk was brutally shot in the neck as he spoke with college students,” officials noted. The podium itself was surrounded, emphasizing the extraordinary caution taken to protect those addressing the crowd.

In light of Kirk’s assassination, Congress is reviewing a $58 million allocation aimed at bolstering security for officials in the executive and judicial branches. While presidents and vice presidents are legally required to accept Secret Service protection, other officials, including press secretaries and senior staff, are increasingly being granted details.

Last week, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt received her own Secret Service detail despite no known public threats against her, highlighting heightened concerns for high-profile public figures.

Historical precedents include 2018, when then-press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was assigned protection after facing harassment at a Virginia restaurant.

Audience stunned by heavy security at Charlie Kirk's memorial

Many attendees and viewers expressed shock online at the sight of bulletproof glass surrounding the main podium. Social media users posted videos and photos highlighting the thick security barriers.

“Glad to see these types of security measures in place,” one viewer wrote.

Another added, “How sad for our country. But necessary.”

Many echoed similar sentiments, “I think it’s done for a very good reason,” and “This should be the norm. Never too much security.”

Some went further, arguing every conservative gathering should adopt similar precautions: “Every conservative event should follow suit. Don’t ever let people forget how violent these demons are.”

Global security implications beyond politics

Security precautions extended beyond political figures. Radar Online reported that global pop star Taylor Swift faced “legitimate threats” following Kirk’s murder, leading to a bulletproof wall being erected during her recent appearance at fiance Travis Kelce’s NFL game.

A source explained, “They used the screen to keep her safe. They have used that screen before, but usually it is for the President or someone like that, not a celebrity. But this was a weird week.”

The secrecy behind Swift’s appearance sparked fan speculation about a personal matter, though insiders confirmed safety concerns were the main reason.

Coordinated efforts among Law Enforcement Agencies

Police Administrator Jose Santiago confirmed that security inside and outside State Farm Stadium mirrored preparations for major national events. The Arizona Department of Public Safety collaborated with the Secret Service within the venue, while Glendale PD coordinated with federal law enforcement outside.

“We'll be providing the same level of service that we provide for any other event. We'll have officers patrolling the area and monitoring everything from outside the stadium,” Santiago said, underscoring the extraordinary measures taken to safeguard mourners and VIPs alike.

The memorial featured bagpipes, the National Anthem, and speeches from various religious and political leaders, creating a solemn yet highly secure environment to honor Charlie Kirk’s life and legacy.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.