Donald Trump on Sunday told an audience of mourners that he hates his opponents — a startling admission for a president of the United States, who represents all citizens.
The remarks came at a memorial service in Glendale, Arizona, for assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following words from his widow, Erika. Despite a litany of racist, misogynistic and homophobic statements Kirk made over the years, she described him as a man of God devoted to helping young people — particularly young men — find purpose and faith rather than anger and despair.
“He knew things were not right with America — especially with young people. And they needed a new direction,” she told the crowd of tens of thousands, before adding that she forgives the man accused of killing her husband. “I forgive him because it is what Christ did. The answer to hate is not hate.”
Trump praised Kirk’s “noble spirit” but then veered into his own views.
“He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them,” Trump said. “That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent, and I don’t want the best for them. I’m sorry. I am sorry, Erika. But now Erika can talk to me and the whole group and maybe they can convince me that that’s not right. But I can’t stand my opponent.”
Kirk was fatally shot Sept. 10 while addressing a large outdoor audience at Utah Valley University. The 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson, is being held without bail. He faces several charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm and obstruction of justice.