Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and one of the most influential voices of the conservative movement, was recently laid to rest — and his memorial service became a “who’s who” of the American conservative movement.

The service, held at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, drew President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senators Ted Cruz and Rick Scott, Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, Elon Musk, UFC CEO Dana White, and many more. It was not just a memorial service — it was a national moment, blending mourning with a reaffirmation of the values Kirk championed.

Texas Gun Rights’ Tie to Charlie: Through Kyle Rittenhouse

While Texas Gun Rights had no direct organizational connection to Charlie Kirk, the group shares a bond through Kyle Rittenhouse — the former Outreach Director for Texas Gun Rights, who is like family to TXGR — and who was also a close friend to Charlie.

After Kyle was fully acquitted of murder charges in 2021, Charlie took him under his wing, giving him a platform to speak at TPUSA events on college campuses across America. Kirk offered Kyle not only exposure, but mentorship and protection during a time when few others dared.

Those appearances, however, were anything but easy. Kyle’s speeches often drew angry protests, many receiving violent threats, and required extra layers of security.

Yet Charlie stood by him every step of the way, shielding him from the relentless hostility of the left while giving him a voice to share his story of self-defense and individual liberty.

Tragically, Charlie would eventually succumb to such violent forces where he himself was the target.

Texas Gun Rights President Chris McNutt reflected on the profound inspiration Kirk left behind:

“Charlie was the shining example for civil discourse, courage, and tremendous faith,” McNutt said. “After watching countless hours of Charlie’s videos — reel after reel since his passing — I can honestly say he has inspired me to be a better Christian, and to be more bold with my views and my faith.”

A Legacy Larger Than Life

The sheer breadth of those in attendance — from the president of the United States to everyday activists Charlie had mentored — was proof of the magnitude of his influence.

Kirk’s willingness to defend controversial voices like Kyle Rittenhouse, his boldness in engaging hostile campuses, and his unapologetic faith made him both a lightning rod and a lodestar for the conservative movement.

For Texas Gun Rights, his story is a reminder that courage and conviction are contagious. His faith continues to inspire, his example continues to embolden, and his loss is felt far beyond the walls of Turning Point USA.

But Charlie Kirk’s memorial service was not just a farewell. It was a rallying point for conservatives who see his life as a call to action — to defend freedom, to live boldly in faith, and to never compromise in the face of relentless opposition.

His legacy lives on in the young men and women he mentored, including Kyle Rittenhouse — and in those who, like Chris McNutt, find themselves rededicating their lives to courage, truth, and faith because of Charlie’s example.

Will you help Texas Gun Rights boldy and unapologetically defend the Second Amendment?