Erika Kirk, the widow of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, announced her support for Vice President JD Vance’s bid for the 2028 US presidential election during the annual “AmericaFest” event held by Turning Point USA in Phoenix, Arizona on Thursday.
She addressed the thousands of attendees at the event, stating that the organization’s focus for the 2026 midterm elections and the 2028 presidential election is on investing in states rather than just individual campaigns.
“We are building a ‘Red Wall’—Arizona, Nevada, New Hampshire. It is crucial for us,” Erika explained.
“We will make sure that my husband’s friend Vance is elected as the 48th president in 2028 in the most resounding way,” she added.
Taking over Turning Point USA after her husband’s tragic passing, Erika emphasized the importance of ensuring President Trump retains control of Congress throughout his four-year term.
With a strong grassroots mobilization network, Turning Point USA wields significant influence among young conservative circles. If Vance decides to run, this backing will provide him with substantial support.
A longtime advisor of Trump told Fox News, “This endorsement was not surprising because Charlie had previously expressed clear support for Vance’s succession in 2028. Last night’s actions reaffirm that if Vance decides to run, the entire political machinery of Turning Point USA will stand behind him. This is a significant boost for the Vice President and a warning signal to other potential candidates.”
Vance and Charlie Kirk had been close friends for years, with Vance attributing his entry into politics to Kirk.
After Kirk’s assassination in Utah in September, Vance personally accompanied Kirk’s casket back to Arizona on Air Force Two.
Following Kirk’s passing, Vance even filled in to host Kirk’s popular podcast series.
While Vance has not publicly stated whether he will run after Trump’s term ends, he has not ruled out the possibility.
In an interview with Fox News last month, Vance said, “I have certainly thought about the scenario after the midterm elections, but whenever these thoughts arise, I remind myself that the American people elected me to do the job at hand.”
He further added, “Getting too distracted by the future could negatively impact current performance. We will focus on winning the midterm elections, and then I will sit down with the President to discuss this matter.”