On the evening of December 18, 2025, Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA and widow of the organization’s late co-founder Charlie Kirk, delivered a stirring speech to thousands of conservative activists at the group’s annual AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona. In a moment that drew prolonged cheers from the crowd, Kirk formally endorsed Vice President JD Vance for president in the 2028 election, declaring, “We are going to get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected” in the most resounding way possible.
The endorsement marks one of the earliest and most significant shows of support for Vance as the Republican Party begins to look beyond President Donald Trump’s second term. Although Vance has not yet announced any plans to run in 2028, he is widely regarded within GOP circles as the natural heir to the MAGA movement that Trump has shaped over the past decade.
Kirk, who assumed leadership of Turning Point USA following the tragic assassination of her husband in September 2025, spoke of Vance in deeply personal terms. Charlie Kirk and JD Vance had developed a close friendship over the years, bonded by shared political convictions and a commitment to conservative activism. In the difficult months since her husband’s death, Kirk has repeatedly expressed gratitude for the support Vance and his wife, Usha, provided to her family. She has described the Vances as offering “genuine love” and being there for her in a profoundly human way during her time of grief.
Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk in 2012, has grown into one of the most powerful grassroots organizations on the American right, particularly influential among younger voters. With a strong presence on college campuses and a track record of mobilizing supporters for Republican candidates, TPUSA has played a key role in advancing the priorities of the MAGA wing of the party. An official endorsement from the organization—especially one delivered so early in the 2028 cycle—could provide Vance with a substantial advantage in building a campaign infrastructure, securing donor commitments, and energizing the conservative base long before primary season begins.
During her remarks, Kirk also outlined Turning Point USA’s broader political strategy moving forward. She emphasized the group’s focus on “building the red wall” by investing heavily in battleground states such as Arizona, Nevada, and New Hampshire. Her goal, she explained, is to help Republicans retain and strengthen their majorities in both the House and Senate during the 2026 midterm elections, ensuring that President Trump has a supportive Congress throughout the remainder of his term.
Kirk’s speech underscored the continuity of mission at Turning Point USA despite the profound loss of its founding leader. Charlie Kirk was killed on September 10, 2025, while speaking at a TPUSA event in Utah. The alleged assailant, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, faces state charges including aggravated murder and has not yet entered a plea. Federal authorities are reportedly considering additional charges.
The AmericaFest conference itself serves as a major gathering for conservative activists, donors, and elected officials. Vance is scheduled to deliver a speech on the event’s closing day, Sunday, December 21, further highlighting the alignment between the vice president and the organization.
While Vance has downplayed speculation about 2028 in public comments—stating that his current focus is on serving as vice president and helping President Trump succeed—few political observers doubt that he is laying the groundwork for a future White House run. Early backing from a high-profile group like Turning Point USA reinforces his standing as a frontrunner and sends a clear signal to other potential Republican contenders.
Kirk’s endorsement blends personal loyalty with strategic political calculation. It reflects the enduring influence of Charlie Kirk’s legacy while positioning Turning Point USA as a central force in shaping the next generation of Republican leadership. As the 2028 presidential race slowly comes into view, this announcement represents an important milestone in what is likely to be a competitive contest for the party’s nomination.
