This isnât my strong suit and I donât even know how to begin to put into words the loss I am feeling right now over the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Charlie wasnât just a friend â he was like a little brother to me - and to millions of people around the world - he was a true inspiration.
He was one of the most courageous, principled men Iâve ever known, and he lived every day with purpose. His faith in God was unshakable, his love for Erika was inspiring, and the way he adored and cared for his two beautiful kids showed the kind of man he truly was.
Charlie dedicated his life to something bigger than himself. He fought tirelessly for this country, for the values that make America great, and for the next generation. The impact he had on young people â reaching them in masses, giving them courage to stand up, to think for themselves, and to fight for freedom â is immeasurable. There is no question that Charlieâs work and his voice helped my father win the presidency. He changed the direction of this nation.
Charlie was never a threat to anyone. He was civil, he was kind, he listened and responded with respect. The only âthreatâ he ever posed was that he was incredibly effective. He was a powerful messenger of truth, and people heard that truth. Thatâs what made him a target.
This loss is absolutely devastating â not only for Erika and the kids, but for our country. Weâve lost a leader, a fighter, and a man whose character and conviction were rare. Too rare. To think that his life was cut short by a brutal, heinous, evil act is beyond comprehension. It is horrible and it is heartbreaking.
Moments like this remind us just how fragile life is. We canât wait to tell people how much they mean to us â we canât admire them in silence. Charlie knew he was loved, but I want to say it again: he was a brother to me, and I will carry that with me forever.
I know Charlieâs legacy doesnât end here. He poured into millions of young people who will carry forward the torch he lit. He built something that will outlast him, because it was grounded in faith, in truth, and in courage. And as his friend, I will never forget him. Iâll honor him by loving boldly, speaking truth without fear, and continuing his spirit of courage. His fight lives on in all of us who loved him.
This is an unimaginable loss. For me, for his family, for everyone who loved him, and for America. Rest in peace, brother. You will be missed more than words can ever say â but your legacy will never be forgotten and we will keep fighting the good fight.