Donald Trump Recalls Final Call From Charlie Kirk

President Donald Trump recently shared what he says was the last conversation he had with Charlie Kirk, shortly before Kirk was fatally shot. According to Trump, Kirk called him asking if he could go to Phoenix—presumably to speak or appear the next day. Trump responded somewhat playfully, expressing surprise that Kirk would ask this of him on short notice, since the President has many commitments.

Trump reflected on the moment with warmth, saying that despite the request being sudden, he often said yes to Kirk. He emphasized how Kirk would reach out to him regularly, urging him to attend Turning Point USA events, to support Kirk’s campus tour, radio/podcast shows, or talk engagements. Trump described Kirk as a “very good friend,” one of his “great patriots,” who “did not deserve this” tragedy.

Context & Kirk’s Final Hours

Charlie Kirk was shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, as part of his “American Comeback Tour.” The suspect allegedly fired a bolt-action rifle from a nearby rooftop. Amidst the manhunt and investigations, Trump’s recollection adds a personal layer to the tragedy—showing how Kirk was still organizing, still active, still reaching out to allies until the end.

Kirk’s work was often centered on mobilizing youth, conservative ideas, and what he described as fighting ideological battles across culture and higher education. He had also been slated to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously—an honor Trump announced in the immediate aftermath of the killing.

Why This Last Call Resonates

• Humanizing the loss: In the midst of broad political fallout, controversy, investigations, and rhetoric, Trump’s story gives a sense of personal connection. It frames Kirk not just as a political figure but as someone who actively coordinated, reached out, and valued engagement.
• Symbol of momentum: The Phoenix request shows that Kirk was still pushing forward with his agenda, with events, appearances, and reach—symbolizing that even in grief, there was energy, intention, purpose.
• Emotional impact: For supporters, this kind of anecdote galvanizes a sense of lost potential—what could have been if the movement had more time, more traction, more moments.

What Trump Said & Plans Around the Memorial

Trump made these remarks as part of the preparations for Kirk’s memorial service, set to be held in Phoenix, Arizona. The service is expected to draw major political figures, and the President plans to attend, along with Vice President JD Vance and others close to Kirk. The funeral and memorial plans are being laid out, and Trump has referred to the weekend as going to be “very sad,” while emphasizing Kirk’s influence and legacy.

Trump also reiterated that Kirk had been a faithful, passionate advocate—calling him a martyr for “truth and freedom”—and underlining that what he built would not end because of his death.

You might also want to read: Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Shot During College Event