Vance Says Trump Was Joking

North Carolina – Vice President JD Vance is setting the record straight after President Donald Trump’s fiery remarks during a memorial service for conservative icon Charlie Kirk sparked widespread attention.

While speaking with Nexstar’s Reshad Hudson on Wednesday, Vance explained that President Trump’s words were misunderstood by the media, stressing that the President was joking when he said he “hates his opponents.”

“If you go back and watch the entire speech, you’ll see that President Trump was speaking in a very unique and humorous way,” Vance said. “He was actually highlighting how hard it is to forgive those who attack you and try to hurt you. He wasn’t calling on anyone to hate their enemies.”

Trump’s Emotional Tribute to Charlie Kirk

On Sunday, President Trump delivered a powerful tribute at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, to honor the late Charlie Kirk, who was a fierce defender of faith, freedom, and conservative values.

Trump praised Kirk as a man of principle and compassion, telling the packed crowd that Kirk never hated those who opposed him politically.

“Charlie wanted the best for everyone — even his opponents,” Trump said. “That’s where he and I disagreed. I’ll be honest — I don’t want the best for my opponents. I’m sorry.”

The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, clearly recognizing Trump’s trademark humor mixed with unapologetic honesty.

Trump then took direct aim at today’s radical left, saying that while Kirk often referred to them simply as “the left,” he preferred to call them what they truly are:

“These are radical-left lunatics who want to destroy our country and everything we hold dear.”

Vance Highlights Christian Forgiveness

Vance used the moment to speak about faith and forgiveness, pointing to the powerful example set by Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow.

During the memorial, Erika brought the audience to tears when she announced that she forgave the shooter who killed her husband.

“I forgive him because it’s what Christ did — and it’s what Charlie would want me to do,” she said, as the crowd rose to their feet in a standing ovation.

Vance praised Erika’s statement, calling it “an incredible act of true Christian forgiveness.”

“Forgiving people who attack you, lie about you, or even commit acts of violence is one of the hardest things any of us can do,” Vance said. “President Trump was simply pointing out how real that struggle is for millions of Americans.”

Trump Administration Focuses on Law and Order, Tax Cuts

While in North Carolina, Vance will make several appearances to highlight President Trump’s historic tax cuts, strong stance on law and order, and policies aimed at protecting hardworking families from the radical left’s agenda.

The White House confirmed Monday that Vance’s tour will focus on:

• Lower taxes to help retirees and working families.
• Securing America’s borders and stopping the chaos caused by open-border policies.
• Cracking down on violent crime to keep communities safe.
• Standing up to the radical left and their attacks on faith, freedom, and traditional values.

“This election isn’t just about politics,” Vance said. “It’s about the future of our country — and President Trump is fighting every single day to protect the values that built America.”

Why This Story Matters

This moment perfectly captures the stark difference between Trump’s America First movement and the radical left’s destructive agenda. While Trump and Vance are fighting to restore freedom, faith, and security, the radical left continues to push policies that weaken the nation and divide communities.

As the 2024 election cycle heats up, voters are looking for bold leadership that will stand up to political elites, protect Christian values, and put the needs of everyday Americans first.