Erika Kirk, the wife of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, made her first public address following her husband’s assassination. In her speech, she expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts in finding the suspect and spoke about her late husband’s commitment to faith and family.
“One of Charlie’s favorite Bible verses was Ephesians 5 verse 25: Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her,” Erika Kirk said. “My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children.”
Charlie Kirk was killed during a public event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Authorities launched a nearly two-day manhunt before arresting 22-year-old Tyler Robinson. According to reports, Robinson engraved ammunition casings with Antifa slogans and confessed to his father, who then alerted authorities.
Governor Spencer Cox provided details from investigators at a press conference on Friday. He explained that Robinson had sent messages to his roommate discussing retrieving a rifle from a drop point and leaving it wrapped in a towel. The messages also mentioned bullet engraving and changing outfits after the shooting. Despite this information, Cox stated, “We do not at this time have any information that would lead to any additional arrests,” adding that he believes Robinson acted alone.
However, Erika Kirk voiced skepticism that Robinson acted without assistance or influence. She suggested there may have been accomplices or others behind the attack: “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.” She continued, “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.”
She emphasized her commitment to continuing Charlie Kirk’s work: “To everyone listening tonight across America, the movement my husband built will not die. It won’t. I refuse to let that happen. It will not die. All of us will refuse to let that happen. No one will ever forget my husband’s name, and I will make sure of it.”
Erika Kirk confirmed plans for Turning Point USA events such as campus tours and “America Fest” in Phoenix would continue as scheduled.
Kirk further reflected on her husband’s impact: “He showed the ultimate and true covenantal love…And our world is filled with evil, but our God…is so good…we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose.” She noted widespread support since his death and described how people shared stories about how Charlie inspired them.
She reiterated her warning: “The evildoers responsible for my husband’s assassination have no idea what they have done…But they should all know this…if you thought that my husband’s mission was powerful before, you have no idea.”
Erika closed by stating future activities would proceed as planned: “Our campus tour this fall will continue…America Fest here in Phoenix this December will go on…the radio and podcast show…will go on.” She concluded by saying Charlie’s voice would remain present through these ongoing efforts.
