Donald Trump Skips Charlie Kirk’s Vigil In D.C.
Donald Trump wasn’t in attendance at the Sunday vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, the slain right-wing activist. Instead, the former president chilled at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, as confirmed in his White House press schedule.
While Trump was on the green, hundreds gathered at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., to pay tribute to Kirk. The vigil kicked off at 6 p.m., drawing a crowd that included 85 members of Congress and prominent MAGA supporters. Among them were House Speaker Mike Johnson, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
In her heartfelt speech, Leavitt addressed the crowd, making it clear that the president still had Kirk in his thoughts. “I speak on behalf of the president when I say President Trump loved you, Charlie, so much.”
Trump’s Weekend in New Jersey
Instead of traveling to the nation’s capital for the vigil, Trump stayed local in Bedminster. On Saturday night, he appeared at the “Hope Through Education” gala, where he discussed Kirk’s death and the suspect, Tyler Robinson. Trump called out the way Robinson became “radicalized,” drawing sharp reactions from the audience.
By Sunday, Trump’s schedule was clear of public appearances. He returned to the White House around 6:30 p.m. — right when long lines were forming outside the Kennedy Center for Kirk’s tribute. To many critics, his absence spoke volumes, especially since Kirk was considered a loyal soldier in Trump’s movement.
Who Showed Up for Charlie Kirk
Even though Trump was absent, plenty of big names turned out to honor Kirk. Arizona Senator Jake Hoffman, who was close to Kirk, delivered a moving speech. He told the crowd: “We know there are two special individuals in that big, beautiful White House that care about Charlie Kirk, don’t we?”
He doubled down, adding:“President Donald J. Trump and Vice President JD Vance love Charlie Kirk just like you love Charlie Kirk.”
The crowd responded with thunderous applause, making it clear the vigil wasn’t just about mourning but about reaffirming Kirk’s influence in conservative circles.
Trump Plans to Attend Kirk’s Funeral
Though he skipped the D.C. vigil, Trump has confirmed he will be present for Kirk’s funeral in Arizona next weekend. His trip will come right after his state visit to the U.K. this week.
This move may quiet some critics who questioned his decision to spend the weekend golfing instead of paying public tribute.
Still, the absence at Sunday’s vigil left a mark on many of Kirk’s supporters, who were looking for their leader to show face during one of the toughest moments for the movement.