Charlie Kirk’s memorial service draws huge crowds in Arizona as Trump, Vance set to speak: Live updates

President Donald Trump said that 10 years ago, colleges were “dangerous for conservatives” and “now they’re hot” as he spoke to reporters before leaving for Charlie Kirk’s memorial service.

The conservative activist was assassinated on the campus of Utah Valley University on September 10.

“He did a tremendous job, and he had a hold on youth because they loved him,” Trump said, according to Reuters news agency. “If you go back 10 years, those colleges were dangerous places for conservatives and now they’re hot. They’re very hot, just like this country is hot.”

Images coming in from the State Farm Stadium show mourners looking emotional ahead of today’s memorial for Charlie Kirk.

Kirk-branded bracelets and pins are also available for mourners.

There is still 2 hours to go until the service begins.

Turning Point USA has warned those wanting to attend Sunday’s memorial service at State Farm Stadium that “enhanced security measures are in place, which may result in longer wait times than usual.”

“We appreciate your patience and understanding,” the group says on its website.

The event will be on a first-come, first-served basis based on stadium capacity. Indoor overflow will be available next door at the Desert Diamond Arena.

With so many administration officials set to attend and speak, security is especially tight.

TP USA also advises that there will be a no bag policy in effect.

“Guests arriving with bags, even clear bags, will NOT be permitted entry. You will be required to return the bag to your vehicle and rejoin the line from the end.”

Vice President JD Vance has paid tribute to his “dear friend Charlie Kirk” ahead of today’s memorial service.

Vance is due to speak later today.

People are filtering into the stadium and taking their seats, with still hours to go until the service itself begins.

Here are some of the first pictures:

Here’s a first look inside the stadium before the crowds descend:

According to Turning Point USA, Sunday’s memorial service for Charlie Kirk will feature remarks by his widow, Erika Kirk, who is now leading the organization, as well as President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

In addition to the president, other speakers include Marco Rubio, Secretary of State; Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health & Human Services; Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense; Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence; Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff; Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff; and Sergio Gor, Director of Personnel.

There will also be remarks from Tucker Carlson and Donald Trump Jr.

Worship will be led by Christian singers Chris Tomlin, Brandon Lake, Phil Wickham, Kari Jobe Carnes, and Cody Carnes.

There will also be performances by Lee Greenwood and Steve Amerson.

President Donald Trump is on his way to Charlie Kirk’s memorial.

The president briefly spoke with the media before boarding Marine One to depart for Glendale, Arizona.

“We’re going to celebrate the life of a great man today,” Trump told reporters as he left the White House. “It will be a tough day.”