Vice President Vance Escorts Charlie Kirk’s Casket Home to Arizona/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Vice President JD Vance accompanied Charlie Kirk’s casket aboard Air Force Two as it returned to Arizona. Vance, his wife Usha, and Kirk’s widow Erika joined service members in honoring the late activist. Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated while speaking in Utah earlier this week.
Vance Escorts Charlie Kirk’s Casket to Arizona: Quick Looks
- Air Force Two carried Charlie Kirk’s casket from Utah to Phoenix.
- Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha accompanied Kirk’s widow Erika.
- Vance helped carry the casket with uniformed service members.
- Flight followed Kirk’s assassination at Utah Valley University.
- Vance recalled meeting Kirk years ago through Fox News connections.
- Their friendship grew as Kirk supported Vance’s political rise.
- Kirk backed Vance as Donald Trump’s vice-presidential choice in 2024.
- Vance described Kirk as “a true friend” who cared about his family.
- Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA, headquartered in Phoenix.
- Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
Vice President Vance Escorts Charlie Kirk’s Casket Home to Arizona
Deep Look
The nation’s mourning for Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist slain earlier this week in Utah, continued Thursday as Air Force Two carried his casket back to his home state of Arizona. Vice President JD Vance, a close personal friend, accompanied the flight, paying tribute with what he called a “final act of friendship.”
The Final Flight
The plane departed Salt Lake City, roughly 40 miles from Orem, Utah, where Kirk was assassinated while speaking at Utah Valley University. Upon arrival in Phoenix, Vice President Vance—dressed in a dark suit—was joined by his wife Usha Vance and Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, both in black attire and sunglasses. Together, they stood solemnly as uniformed service members helped transfer the casket.
Vance himself joined the detail in lifting Kirk’s casket onto the aircraft, underscoring both his official role and his personal bond with the late activist.
Vance and Kirk’s Friendship
On Wednesday night, Vance reflected on his relationship with Kirk in a post on social media. He recalled that their friendship began several years ago when Kirk reached out after seeing Vance on Fox News host Tucker Carlson’s program.
“That moment of kindness began a friendship,” Vance wrote.
Their connection deepened over time. Kirk frequently checked in on Vance’s family and became an outspoken supporter of his political career. Last year, Kirk publicly advocated for Donald Trump to select Vance as his running mate in the 2024 presidential race—a decision that eventually became reality.
Vance described Kirk as “a true friend” who provided encouragement and counsel through political battles and family challenges alike.
Honoring a Conservative Force
Kirk was best known as the co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, a Phoenix-based youth organization that galvanized young conservatives and grew into a major force in American politics. His influence extended beyond campuses, shaping conversations about free speech, conservatism, and the future of the Republican Party.
His assassination in Utah stunned allies and opponents alike, sparking condemnation across the political spectrum and renewed debate over political violence in America.
What Comes Next
Kirk’s funeral and memorial details are expected in the coming days, with President Donald Trump already pledging to attend. Thursday’s flight symbolized not only the government’s recognition of Kirk’s influence but also the deep personal ties he forged within the administration.
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