Erika Kirk, widow of conservative figure and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, has spoken publicly for the first time since her husband’s tragic assassination on a Utah university campus earlier this week.
In an emotional video message, Erika directed her words to those she called “the evildoers responsible,” declaring that while they took her husband’s life, they also “unleashed” a movement that will grow even stronger.
She began by expressing gratitude to President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, first responders in Orem, and law enforcement officials who, she said, “worked tirelessly” to apprehend the suspect. Notably, she avoided naming the alleged shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson.
Addressing the nation, Erika said her husband was targeted because “he preached a message of patriotism, faith, and God’s merciful love.” She warned that those behind his killing have “no idea the fire they ignited within this wife,” adding that her voice as a widow would echo “like a battle cry” across the world.
Erika promised that Charlie’s mission would not die. “To everyone listening tonight across America, the movement my husband built will not end. It will grow stronger, bolder, louder, and greater than ever before,” she declared. “No one will ever forget his name, and I will make sure of it.”
The address, broadcast from Charlie’s podcast studio at Turning Point USA headquarters in Phoenix, opened with a tribute to those who rushed to her husband’s aid. “I want to thank law enforcement at every level for their bravery, the first responders who fought heroically to save Charles’ life, and the police who prevented more bloodshed that afternoon,” she said.
She also paid personal thanks to Trump, noting that her husband “loved” him and cherished his friendship, and to Vice President Vance and his wife Usha, who accompanied Erika on Air Force Two as she brought her husband’s casket home.
Charlie Kirk was killed Wednesday during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem when Robinson allegedly fired a single shot from a high-powered rifle. Authorities say the bullet struck Kirk in the neck, killing him instantly.
The FBI confirmed Robinson’s arrest on Friday, while Utah Gov. Spencer Cox revealed investigators recovered shell casings marked with anti-fascist slogans, suggesting possible ideological motives.
Erika, formerly Erika Frantzve, married Charlie on May 8, 2021. The couple has two young children, a daughter, 3, and a son, 1.
A former Miss Arizona USA (2012), Erika is also a former college basketball player with degrees from Arizona State University and Liberty University. She currently hosts Midweek Rise Up, a Christian-based podcast released twice weekly.
On the day of the assassination, she shared a Bible verse on X: “Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
