The head of Turning Point USA announced that the organization has received an impressive wave of interest, with 18,000 requests for new chapters following a poignant address by Erika, the widow of founder Charlie Kirk, who spoke publicly for the first time since his tragic assassination.
Republican Senator Elliot Engen from Minnesota shared a screenshot of his conversation with TPUSA leaders, revealing the flood of requests to establish new college and high school branches. Prior to Erika’s address, TPUSA reported having about 9,000 university and 1,100 high school branches.
“This is the turning point,” the TPUSA leader remarked in the text exchange.
These requests surged after Charlie Kirk was shot while addressing an audience at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The suspected shooter, a 22-year-old Utah resident named Tyler Robinson, was charged with aggravated murder shortly after.
In a live stream from her husband’s office, Erika affirmed that his vision—rooted in faith, patriotism, and moral values—will not fade. She emphasized that his mission remains “stronger, bolder, and louder than ever,” and encouraged young people to initiate or join TPUSA chapters if they aren’t already available in their areas.
“He wants you to make a difference,” Erika asserted. “This movement isn’t going anywhere, and getting involved will empower you.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post, she shared a photo of her husband in his casket, expressing her determination: “I don’t know what they’ve ignited in this wife.” She added a warning to those who underestimated her husband’s mission: “If they thought it was significant before… they truly don’t know.”
Turning Point USA and Turning Point Action have not yet responded to requests for comments.
