“I’ve known Charlie for approaching a decade now, and he was a good man, highly principled. And he was a champion for debate, dialogue, and free speech — the cornerstone of democracy. And he was silenced for being so persuasive, ultimately.”

Trump emphasized Kirk’s approach to politics as one that encouraged robust discussion rather than shutting down opponents.

“He represents the kind of politics we should aspire to, where you’re not afraid of people who disagree with you. In fact, you welcome them into conversation and debate,” she said. She noted that Kirk never shied away from dissent, arguing instead that the strength of his ideas made him a formidable voice. “His tongue, his brain, that was his sword,” she added.

Kirk’s assassination, which unfolded before a crowd of thousands on campus, has shocked the conservative movement and reignited debates