Erika Kirk Backs JD Vance for 2028 Presidency Amid Ongoing Controversies
London, 9 January 2026 – Erika Kirk, the widow of assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk and current leader of Turning Point USA, endorsed Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 presidential election during the organisation’s annual conference in December 2025, pledging to mobilise support for his candidacy.
Erika Kirk’s Endorsement of JD Vance
At the Turning Point USA conference in Phoenix, Arizona, in December 2025, Kirk declared that the group would work to elect Vance as the 48th president, describing him as a close friend of her late husband. She stated, “We are going to get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected for 48 in the most resounding way possible.” This marked the most explicit backing of Vance’s potential bid by someone positioned as a steward of Charlie Kirk’s legacy, who had been a key supporter of Vance’s rise in politics.
Background on Erika Kirk
Born in 1988, Erika Kirk is a former Miss Arizona USA winner from 2012 and a brief NCAA women’s basketball player. She founded the nonprofit Everyday Heroes Like You and hosts the Midweek Rise Up podcast. Married to Charlie Kirk in 2021, they had two children. Following his assassination in September 2025 at Utah Valley University, she was appointed CEO and chair of Turning Point USA, vowing to continue his mission of promoting conservative values among youth.
Key Facts / Stats
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 37 (born 20 November 1988) |
| Role in Turning Point USA | CEO and Chair since September 2025 |
| Endorsement Date | December 2025 at annual conference |
| Key Initiatives | Promoting faith, family, and conservative youth mobilisation |
Controversies and Recent Developments
Kirk faced tensions with conservative commentator Candace Owens over conspiracy theories about Charlie Kirk’s death. In December 2025, Kirk announced a private meeting with Owens to address the issue, stating that public discussions were on hold. She urged Owens to stop spreading unverified claims, saying, “Stop. That’s it.” The meeting drew attention from figures like Senator Ted Cruz, who wished for peace. Additionally, Kirk defended her husband’s legacy against criticisms of his past statements, emphasising context and his focus on excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Erika Kirk?
Erika Kirk is an American businesswoman, nonprofit executive, and podcaster, best known as the widow of Charlie Kirk and the current leader of Turning Point USA, a conservative organisation focused on youth activism.
What is Turning Point USA?
Turning Point USA is a conservative nonprofit founded by Charlie Kirk in 2012, aimed at promoting conservative values on college campuses and among young people through events, media, and advocacy.
Why did Erika Kirk endorse JD Vance?
Kirk endorsed Vance due to his close friendship with her late husband and shared conservative principles, pledging Turning Point USA’s support for his potential 2028 presidential bid.
What controversies has Erika Kirk faced?
She has addressed conspiracy theories about her husband’s assassination spread by Candace Owens and defended Charlie Kirk’s statements against accusations of lacking context, while navigating her role in a polarised political landscape.