Erika Kirk, the widow of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has spoken about “cameras analysing” her every move as she made her first public remarks since a video of her hugging US Vice President JD Vance at an event went viral.
In an interview with Fox News at Turning Point USA headquarters, Erika addressed the controversy while also calling for transparency in the upcoming court proceedings involving Tyler Robinson, the man accused of murdering her husband.
“There were cameras all over my husband when he was murdered,” she told Watters. “There have been cameras all over my friends and family, mourning. There have been cameras all over me. Analysing my every move, analysing my every smile, my every tear. We deserve to have cameras in there.”
“Why not be transparent?” she continued. “There’s nothing to hide. I know there’s not, because I’ve seen what the case is built on. Let everyone see what true evil is. This is something that could impact a generation and generations to come.”
Erika, who recently assumed the role of CEO of Turning Point USA, has faced criticism from some commentators who questioned the timing of her public appearances following her husband’s death. The controversy intensified after footage emerged of her introducing Vice President JD Vance at the organisation’s event in Mississippi.
“No one will ever replace Charlie, but I do see some similarities of my husband in JD, Vice President JD Vance,” she said while introducing him.
As Vance took the stage, the two shared a close embrace. The Vice President reportedly placed his hands on Erika’s waist while she ran her fingers through his hair.
During the Fox News interview, Erika also broke down while watching a video of her late husband. “Sorry, guys. Just give me a second,” she said tearfully. “This is the longest video I have watched of him. Just give me a second.”
Watters reflected on Charlie Kirk’s mission to “save Western civilisation,” asking if Erika had signed up for that cause. She replied softly, “I didn’t sign up for anything. I just married the love of my life.”
At Charlie Kirk’s memorial service on September 21, Erika delivered an emotional eulogy, saying she had chosen forgiveness toward the man accused of his murder.
“He (Charlie) wanted to save young men just like the one who took his life,” she said. “That man, that young man, I forgive him,” she added tearfully.