In a deeply moving and politically charged address, Erika Kirk, the CEO of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), made her first major public appearance since the tragic assassination of her husband and TPUSA founder, Charlie Kirk. The speech, delivered at the AmericaFest event in Phoenix on December 19, 2025, served as both a heartfelt tribute and a strategic call to action for the conservative movement.
A Tribute to Charlie Kirk's Legacy
Erika Kirk began her emotional speech by honouring the memory of her late husband, describing the AmericaFest gathering as Charlie's "Super Bowl." She urged the thousands of supporters present to channel their collective grief into purposeful political action, framing it as the best way to continue Charlie Kirk's work. In a significant revelation, she announced that Turning Point USA has grown to involve millions of students across the United States, showcasing the organisation's expanding influence under her leadership.
Confrontation with Candace Owens
The address took a pointed turn when Erika Kirk directly addressed the public dispute with conservative commentator Candace Owens. Without mincing words, Kirk dismissed Owens's controversial conspiracy theories related to Egypt, which had been a point of contention following Charlie Kirk's death. The public swipe marked a clear delineation within conservative circles and underscored the ongoing internal debates shaping the movement's future.
A Major Political Endorsement
In what is being seen as a pivotal political moment, Erika Kirk used the platform to make a significant endorsement. She threw her full support behind Vice President JD Vance to become the next President of the United States. Kirk vowed to mobilise the substantial resources and network of Turning Point USA to help secure Republican victories in the upcoming electoral battles. This endorsement positions her as a key power broker within the GOP.
Signalling a New Chapter
Erika Kirk's speech at AmericaFest was more than a memorial; it was a declaration of her intent to lead. By combining personal remembrance with sharp political critique and a bold endorsement, she signalled a powerful turning point for the conservative movement as it navigates a future without one of its most prominent founders. The address firmly established her voice as one to be reckoned with in the national political arena.
