DHS declares Charlie Kirk memorial Level 1 Special Event as press interest surges

The memorial event for Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk has been declared to be a Level 1 Special Event by the Department of Homeland Security, as press interest has soared. Kirk was assassinated on September 10.

According to Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for TPUSA as well as a close friend to Kirk, it has gained as much attention as the Super Bowl. The memorial service will take place on Sunday at the State Farm Stadium in Arizona.

"I was just told that we have more press interest in Sunday’s celebration of Charlie Kirk’s life and legacy than there is for the Super Bowl. The gospel of Jesus Christ is about to be proclaimed to the largest audience in the history of humanity. To God be the Glory," Kolvet posted to X.

The memorial service is slated to take place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, and security is expected to be tight. Officials estimate that there will be over 100,000 people drawn to the event. The event has been designated as a Level 1 Special Event by DHS, meaning that not only is there press it also needs planning and security similar to the Super Bowl. According to Fox News, officials have said the designation is "one step below National Special Security Event (NSSE) which would be Olympic security or inauguration."

Prominent figures such as President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are expected to be in attendance. Other prominent political figures from the United States and around the world are also expected to be there. Just in the administration alone, the White House will also be sending two planes full of staff who will be attending the memorial service.

Kirk was assassinated on September 10 while he was speaking and debating with students at Utah Valley University. Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested and charged with aggravated murder in the shooting. Robinson is facing the death penalty in Utah, and authorities have said that he was deeply involved with leftist ideology before the assassination. Evidence points to political motivation in the assassination.