Erika Kirk has remained in the public eye in recent months as she continues the work associated with her late husband, Charlie Kirk, and the organization he helped build, Turning Point USA. Since stepping into a leadership role, she has appeared at several events focused on students, supporters, and organizational goals. During Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest event in Phoenix, Arizona, held in late December, one moment from Erika Kirk’s speech drew widespread attention online.
While addressing the audience, she momentarily misspoke, using the word “grift” before quickly correcting herself to say “grit” while describing perseverance and determination. The brief slip happened during a segment recognizing a student who had remained active in campus organizing efforts connected to the organization. Erika Kirk immediately acknowledged the mistake, paused, and corrected herself, explaining that it had been a long day.