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Thousands Gather in Glendale to Honor Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk as Erika Kirk Becomes New CEO

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Published on September 22, 2025
Thousands Gather in Glendale to Honor Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk as Erika Kirk Becomes New CEOSource: Wikipedia/U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cody A. Fodale/Released, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Tens of thousands gathered in Glendale, Arizona, to honor Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, following his death earlier this month at Utah Valley University. According to abc15, Erika Kirk addressed mourners at State Farm Stadium, with her remarks broadcast to wider audiences.

USA Today reported that Erika Kirk was elected the new CEO of Turning Point USA just days before the memorial service. At 36, she is a former Miss Arizona USA, holds a Juris Master’s from Liberty University School of Law, is pursuing a doctorate in biblical studies, and has founded a nonprofit and a ministry focused on daily biblical engagement.

The memorial included high-profile attendees such as President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were indicated by Turning Point USA to have speaking roles at the event.