‘My husband loved Donald Trump’: Erika Kirk makes first public statement after Charlie’s death

Washington: Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk, made her first public appearance on September 12 following her husband's tragic death in a Utah shooting. In an emotional press conference, Erika expressed her gratitude to supporters and delivered a powerful tribute to her late husband, vowing to carry on his legacy.

Fighting back tears, the 36-year-old mother of two began by acknowledging the efforts of law enforcement and emergency responders. “I want to thank the law enforcement and first responders who struggled heroically to save Charles' life, and the police who acted bravely to ensure there were no other victims on that terrible afternoon,” she said, according to the BBC.

One of the most heartfelt moments came when Erika addressed former President Donald Trump directly, thanking him and his family for their support in the wake of the tragedy. “Mr President, my husband loved you. And he knew that you loved him too. He did. Your friendship was amazing. You supported him so well, as did he for you.”

Erika also extended her appreciation to the staff of Turning Point USA, the organization her husband helped build. “My heart is with everyone of my husband's employees who lost a friend and a mentor,” she said. “He loved what he did.”

She went on to thank Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, for their personal support. “My gratitude goes to Charlie's friends,” she said, adding, “Thank you to Vice-President JD Vance and his wife Usha for bringing him home.”

Turning to her husband's values and legacy, Erika highlighted his commitment to faith and family. “Charlie said if he ever ran for office, his top priority would be to revive the American family. That was his priority,” she shared.

Speaking about their life together, Erika described Charlie as a devoted family man. “But most of all, Charlie loved his children. And he loved me. With all his heart. And he made sure I knew that everyday,” she said.

Addressing those she holds responsible for Charlie’s death, Erika was resolute and forceful. “You have no idea what they have done,” she said. “They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith and of God's merciful love.”

In a message directed at her husband’s killers, Erika declared: “You have no idea the fire that you have ignited within this wife, the cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.”

“They should all know this: If you thought that my husband's mission was powerful before you have no idea, you have no idea what you just have unleashed across this entire country and this world, you have no idea.”

On September 11, Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States, was seen offering comfort to Erika Kirk as Charlie’s casket was taken home. Her husband, JD Vance, helped carry the casket onto a flight from Salt Lake City to Phoenix.