Erica Kirk took on her first official responsibilities on Friday after the tragic assassination of her husband, Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Speaking from Phoenix Studios, she expressed her determination to carry on his mission and continue his radio show.
Erica made a bold statement, saying, “No one will forget my husband’s name. I’ll confirm it,” just two days after Charlie’s passing, which was captured on video during a talk at Utah Valley University.
She stated, “It will be strong, bold, bigger, and bigger than ever. My husband’s mission will not end.”
Continuing, she expressed her admiration for Charlie’s relentless spirit: “I love knowing that one of his mottos was to never surrender. So I want to tell you that we will never surrender. Never do that. It has never been this way before. Campus tours will continue this fall, and there will be more tours in the coming years. The American Fest is set to take place in Phoenix this December, and it’s larger than ever. The radio and podcast shows that he was so proud of will continue as well. In a world filled with confusion, doubt, and uncertainty, my husband’s voice remains loud and clear. His wisdom endures.”
She reached out to her supporters, emphasizing her husband’s commitment to his work: “My favorite, but my husband’s favorite word in English was to earn money. He always referred to young people as the future of America, worthy of action. So, to all the young people inspired by my husband’s faith in hard work, I say this.”
Erica urged those who understood Charlie’s vision to get involved: “If you’re in high school or college, find your local Turning Point USA chapter and join us. The movement doesn’t go anywhere. When you join, it becomes stronger. If there isn’t a chapter nearby, you can start one. There’s no excuse for inaction.”
“As my husband would say every day from this chair: if you want to participate, the best way is to go to TPUSA.com. I watched him deliver this message daily,” she reminisced.
She also encouraged pastors and parents to get involved: “Join us in our efforts with TPUSA Faith, and if you’re a parent, I highly recommend attending the American Fest in December. I want to see you all there. Charlie will be with us.”
She ended her address with a heartfelt promise to her late husband: “Charlie, I promise I will never let your legacy die. I vow to make Turning Point USA the biggest thing this country has ever seen. I promise.”
On Thursday, Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance accompanied Charlie’s remains to Phoenix aboard Air Force Two. Young bagpipers played “America the Beautiful” at Turning Point USA Headquarters as supporters left flowers, balloons, and posters at a growing memorial.
President Donald Trump announced that he would posthumously award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. A tribute video released by the White House described Kirk as “a fearless patriot and an unshakable man of faith who dedicated his life to America.”
Additionally, Utah Senator Daniel McKay stated that Kirk was killed at the first stop on the “American Comeback Tour” during a fundraiser for a permanent monument at Utah Valley University. Turning Point USA characterized its late founder as “the greatest champion for free speech that he so passionately supported.”
