JUST IN:: In Washington, D.C., thousands of people gathered at the Kennedy Center for a prayer vigil to mourn Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, after his untimely death.

In Washington, D.C., thousands of people gathered at the Kennedy Center for a prayer vigil to mourn Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, after his untimely death. The gathering was open to the public, although attendees were required to register online in advance. 

Among those speaking at the event were prominent figures from the Trump administration and Republican leadership—including White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and House Speaker Mike Johnson—who joined others in paying tribute to Kirk’s life and work.  His widow, Erika Kirk, also delivered deeply emotional remarks to the nation, vowing to carry forward the movement he built. She promised that Kirk’s name and cause would never be forgotten and declared, “The movement my husband built will not die.” 

Supporters came from many places to show their respect. One attendee, Christine Carmody, 65, traveled from her home in Maryland to honor Kirk, describing him as a “wonderful, wonderful man.”  At the vigil, people offered prayers, shared memories, and honored Kirk’s faith, political activism, and deep influence amongst conservative youth. 

The vigil is part of a series of memorials and tributes held around the country in response to his death, resonating with his supporters and sparking wider reflections on political discourse and violence in America.