Kathryn Limbaugh addressed the audience on Friday prior to her appearance at President Donald Trump’s Turning Point Action event. She came to the defense of Erica Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, who remains at the helm of Turning Point USA as its chairman and CEO, following her husband’s tragic assassination. Limbaugh also praised Erica’s strength and resilience.
Kathryn is the widow of the famous conservative radio host, Rush Limbaugh. This remarks were delivered during the event in Phoenix on April 17.
Both Rush Limbaugh and Charlie Kirk, who died in 2021 after a struggle with lung cancer, were honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest civilian award in the nation. Rush received this recognition in 2020 during Trump’s first term, while Charlie will be receiving it posthumously in 2025 during Trump’s second term.
Kathryn Limbaugh expressed her thoughts:
“Last September, something unimaginable happened. After a horrifying period that drew global attention, Erica demonstrated incredible grace, strength, and determination to not let anything dim her spirit.
She is not just supporting a young family in ways she never thought possible; she is also continuing Charlie’s mission and inspiring many young students.
Anyone who critiques Erica’s way of grieving or her path forward should take a moment to consider her humanity.
Many claim to be compassionate, yet in reality, they can be quite harsh. There are countless people who loved Charlie, and equally, many who love Erica.
Ultimately, good prevails over evil.
Charlie understood the person he married—a strong, wise, and beautiful soul inside and out. I believe he is very proud of Erica and her ongoing journey.
I’ve often remarked that Charlie was like a younger Rush. The next Rush Limbaugh, really. In fact, I think they’re probably sitting together in heaven right now.”
This statement from Kathryn Limbaugh followed criticism aimed at comedian Drew Desbordes (known as Druskie) for mocking Erica Kirk in a skit where he impersonated her while dancing in front of a spark machine that set off fireworks, and other similar clips. Critics on social media accused DeBordes of targeting Charlie Kirk’s widow merely six months after his death.
Erica Kirk has faced scrutiny over Turning Point USA’s use of spark fountains at events and memorials for Charlie. A spokesperson, Andrew Corbett, stated that the display is a signature aspect of the organization, cherished by Kirk, and reflects their commitment to celebrating his life and legacy despite the tragedy.
In her new role taking over Charlie Kirk’s work, Erica has also found support from Turning Point USA followers and people globally. Producer Blake Neff from the Charlie Kirk Show shared images of letters, art, gifts, and memorabilia sent to Erica and Turning Point USA following Charlie’s assassination. These included paintings, children’s toys, and two Purple Hearts sent by supporters. Neff also recounted a touching letter from a 7-year-old who expressed sadness over Charlie’s shooting, mentioning a memorial set up at Turning Point USA’s campus with many letters and packages still unopened.
As the investigation against a suspect named Robinson continues, Erica Kirk is still in the spotlight. A recent ATF report indicated that bullet fragments matched characteristics of Tyler Robinson’s Mauser 98 rifle, meaning this rifle cannot be excluded as the source of the bullet, although there wasn’t enough evidence to definitively connect it to that specific weapon among others of the same type.
