The Department of Homeland Security has classified the upcoming memorial service for Mr. Kirk as a top-level security event, comparable to major occurrences such as the Super Bowl and the New York City Marathon. Jose Miguel Santiago, a spokesperson for the Glendale Police Department, emphasized that this operation is an "all hands on deck" situation. He likened the security preparations to those undertaken for Super Bowl LVII, which took place at the same stadium in 2023. However, there's a significant difference; law enforcement had years to prepare for the Super Bowl but only about a week to devise a security plan for Mr. Kirk's service.
Despite the time constraints, Mr. Santiago expressed confidence in the readiness of his department and the numerous federal and local agencies collaborating for this event. Hundreds of police officers will be stationed around the stadium, complemented by drones overhead and metal detectors at entry points. The Glendale Police Department has access to over 300 security cameras positioned throughout the stadium area to ensure comprehensive surveillance. "Every kind of security measure you can possibly think of will be in place," stated Mr. Santiago.
Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Mr. Kirk that is organizing the service, reported that over 200,000 people have registered to attend. Attendees should brace themselves for what has been described as “T.S.A.-level screening,” reminiscent of airport security protocols, and should anticipate long wait times. Furthermore, attendees are advised that no bags will be permitted inside the stadium, including clear bags.
Security concerns were amplified after law enforcement investigated multiple potential threats related to Mr. Kirk and the memorial service itself. Confusion arose over the weekend when an armed man was arrested at the stadium on Friday; however, it was later clarified that the individual was conducting advance security work for a guest attending the service.
By 5:30 a.m. on the day of the event, thousands had already gathered outside the stadium, engaging in prayer and singing hymns. This memorial aims to celebrate Mr. Kirk's legacy while galvanizing a political movement in his name, continuing a series of public vigils across the country that have attracted thousands of his supporters, alongside scattered protests. However, none have matched the scale anticipated in Glendale, where Mr. Kirk resided with his family, and where Turning Point USA is headquartered.
The speaker lineup for the memorial is impressive, featuring not only the President and Vice President but also prominent members of former President Trump’s cabinet and White House staff. This includes high-profile figures from the Make America Great Again movement, which further underscores the significance of Mr. Kirk’s influence in conservative politics.
The memorial will take place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, home to the Arizona Cardinals, which can accommodate over 70,000 attendees. Anticipating a large turnout, organizers have also secured a 19,000-person arena next door for overflow crowds, with plans for an additional overflow location if necessary. Dozens of state and federal law enforcement officers will be on duty in Glendale, with neighboring police departments placed on alert.
Attendees are urged to prepare for lengthy screening lines and congested parking lots. Those planning to attend should arrive early, as the event operates on a first-come, first-served basis. In a bid to honor Mr. Kirk, attendees are encouraged to dress in their “Sunday Best” and to wear red, white, or blue.
For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed on Mr. Kirk’s Rumble account. Several news outlets, including Fox News and ABC News Live, are also set to broadcast the event, ensuring that Mr. Kirk's legacy reaches a wider audience.
As the nation prepares to honor Mr. Kirk, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the organizing team strive to ensure a respectful and secure environment for all attendees.
