Aboard Air Force One — Following the emotional memorial service for Charlie Kirk, President Donald Trump spoke with members of the press, addressing his private exchange with Erika Kirk, future plans to honor Charlie’s legacy, pressing energy concerns, and even his stance on autism research.

Trump opened by reflecting on the tribute, calling it “a great ceremony for a great man.” Asked about his conversation with Erika Kirk, the former president praised her intelligence and heart, saying, “Charlie always used to say she was very smart… she’s got a shot at making it even more special. I think she’s going to do a good job.”

Honoring Charlie Kirk

When pressed on whether he would consider naming an area at the White House after Kirk, Trump suggested that while small tributes could happen, a greater honor is already in motion: the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He described the award as “the highest civilian honor” and called it “a great tribute to him, a great guy.”

Trump also noted that he intends to adopt the final song from the memorial for use at future rallies, calling it “the best rendition I’ve ever heard.”

Trump on Elon Musk, Energy, and Foreign Policy

Reporters highlighted speculation that Charlie Kirk’s legacy helped repair Trump’s relationship with Elon Musk. Trump downplayed that claim, though he confirmed Musk greeted him warmly at the event. He also teased plans for a UFC fight on the White House grounds, calling it “an unbelievable event.”

Switching to policy, Trump criticized U.S. dependence on Russian uranium imports, saying America must return to domestic mining and production. He also claimed that Venezuela’s waters, once plagued by drug trafficking, are now “strangely empty,” interpreting this as proof of tougher U.S. enforcement.

Autism, Vaccines, and a Major Announcement

Perhaps most controversially, Trump previewed a major announcement on autism scheduled for tomorrow, suggesting both Tylenol and vaccine schedules could be factors. He criticized the current vaccine system as overwhelming for infants, saying, “You have a little body, a little baby, and you’re pumping this big thing… it’s a horrible thing.”

Attacks on Democrats and Media

Responding to a question on Democratic values, Trump dismissed the opposition party as representing “chaos, confusion, and anger”, while describing Republicans as the party of faith, family, and country. He also mocked Jimmy Kimmel, whose show was recently canceled, claiming the comedian had “no talent and no ratings — a deadly combination.”

Law and Order, the Supreme Court, and Gaza

On domestic security, Trump promised swift deployment of the National Guard to Memphis, drawing comparisons to his efforts to lower crime in Washington, D.C. He stressed that Supreme Court justices must be better protected after the attempted assassination of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, calling it “horrible” and “unacceptable.”

When asked about the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Trump said he would like to see a diplomatic solution, though he admitted “a lot of anger and hatred” make the path forward difficult.

Closing Thoughts

On the investigation into Charlie Kirk’s killer, Trump said current evidence does not suggest broader conspiracies, though officials will produce a final report. He concluded by urging accountability across government, warning of corruption predating his administration.

“If I didn’t win this election, our country would be destroyed. We wouldn’t have a country right now,” Trump declared before wrapping up the gaggle.