Erika Kirk makes her 2028 presidential endorsement — and it's raising eyebrows
Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, endorsed Vice President JD Vance for president on Thursday.
The chairwoman and CEO of the right-wing Turning Point USA made the announcement during the organization’s annual AmericaFest conference, the first since her husband’s assassination in September.
“We are going to get my husband’s friend, JD Vance, elected for 48 in the most resounding way possible,” said Kirk, whose announcement was met with cheers and applause.
Vance, who is scheduled to speak at AmericaFest on Sunday, has yet to announce a 2028 bid. He told Fox News’ Sean Hannity last month that he wants to focus on next year’s midterms before discussing a possible presidential run.
Kirk’s endorsement raised some virtual eyebrows on social media and reignited talk about her embracing Vance at a Turning Point event honoring her late husband in October. The tight hug (on top of Kirk’s claim that she sees “some similarities” between her late husband and Vance) sparked a wave of rumors about their relationship as well as the veep’s marriage with his wife, Usha Vance.
Politics: AOC Answers JD Vance 2028 Matchup Question With 4 Stomping Words
The swirl of speculation about the Vances’ marriage escalated after the second lady was spotted without her wedding ring last month. Usha Vance has dismissed the gossip, referring to it as a “family joke,” while Kirk has argued that the hug was taken out of context.
Still, social media users had a field day with Kirk’s latest show of support for Vance: