Erika Kirk, now heading Turning Point USA following her husband Charlie Kirk’s tragic death in September, expressed the organization’s commitment to backing Vice-President JD Vance for the 2028 presidential race. At the Turning Point USA’s youth conference in Phoenix, Arizona, Kirk announced their intention to support Vance’s bid for the 48th U.S. presidency, highlighting their close relationship.
Vance, a frequent guest on Charlie Kirk’s podcast and previously endorsed by Kirk during his 2022 U.S. Senate campaign in Ohio, emphasized the deep-rooted friendship they shared since 2017, fueled by Vance’s acclaimed memoir “Hillbilly Elegy.” Since Kirk’s untimely demise in September, Vance has taken on hosting duties for Kirk’s podcast and engaged in Turning Point events, such as a stop at the University of Mississippi.
During a memorial for Kirk, Vance credited Kirk for his current position as Vice-President, stating that without Kirk’s influence, he wouldn’t have reached his current role. Erika Kirk, aged 37, hinted at endorsing Vance in the upcoming years, despite the timing being relatively early in the presidential election cycle.
Charlie Kirk, who gained prominence for his early contributions to Breitbart News and subsequent involvement in youth-focused organizations supported by prominent Republican figures, positioned Turning Point as a key entity during Republican national conventions. Kirk’s partnership with Trump and the financial benefits derived from it have been well-documented.
Erika Kirk, elected as the new leader of Turning Point after her husband’s passing, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to their mission. She also pledged support to maintain a Republican majority in Congress for the entirety of President Trump’s term, with a focus on the upcoming midterms.
The potential for a 2028 presidential candidacy by JD Vance has sparked interest, with various figures like Marco Rubio expressing support for Vance. Trump, while teasing the idea of a fourth run for the presidency, acknowledged both Vance and Rubio as strong contenders for future elections. Despite speculation and early polls indicating preferences for potential matchups, key figures like Ocasio-Cortez and Vance have not officially declared their presidential intentions.