Erika Kirk, the new CEO of Turning Point USA and widow of the late Charlie Kirk, sparked headlines after publicly endorsing JD Vance for the 2028 presidential election during AmericaFest in Phoenix. Her speech drew loud cheers—and online speculation—especially after a past viral embrace with Vance reignited rumors she has repeatedly dismissed.
At the same time, Kirk has faced criticism from conservative commentator Candace Owens, who accused her of shutting down questions and conspiracy theories surrounding her husband’s killing. Kirk firmly rejected those claims in media interviews, calling them harmful and defending the investigation, while tensions between the two figures continue to play out publicly.
