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By Anna Commander
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Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, spoke in a live video stream on Turning Point USA's account for the first time since her husband's assassination on Wednesday.
Why It Matters
The deadly shooting two days ago targeted a high-profile conservative organizer speaking at a college campus, raising concerns of university safety protocols, political violence and security at public events.
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Charlie Kirk, 31, was a staunch ally of President Donald Trump and a notable younger voice and advocate of MAGA, with a large following on social media.
What To Know
On X Friday night, Erika spoke from Charlie's studio, thanking people who have shown her and her family love in the days after his stunning death.
"I want to thank my husband's dear friend, Vice President [JD] Vance and his phenomenal wife Usha for their love and support. You guys honored my husband so well bringing him home," Erika said.
Kirk's widow also touched on Charlie's love for America, Trump and his passion for Turning Point USA. She vowed that his mission will continue and that the campus tour scheduled for the fall will go on.
"The evildoers, responsible for my husband's assassination have no idea what they have done," Erika said. "They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith and of God's merciful love."
"You have no idea what you just have unleashed across this entire country," she later added.
"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," Erika said.
"The movement my husband built will not die."
Erika said that if Charlie had ever run for office, his "top priority" would have been to "revive the American family."
Charlie said he wanted to be remembered for his courage and faith, Erika mentioned in the video stream. "Now and for all eternity, he will stand at his savior's side wearing the glorious crown of a martyr," she said.
Kirk's widow said she felt Charlie's love for her every day. "He was the perfect father; he was the perfect husband."
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What People Are Saying
Vance, to X on Friday: "I am grateful to Governor Spencer Cox, Utah law enforcement, Kash Patel, and the FBI for giving this case the time, resources, and hard work it deserved. This is a big breakthrough, and everyone who helped--from the law enforcement professionals to the people giving tips--deserves our credit and gratitude.
"In some ways, the investigation is still in the early days. But I do believe we have the shooter in custody. Say a prayer for Erika Kirk and those two beautiful babies. We took a big step this morning in getting justice for Charlie, and for his family. Thanks be to God for that."
Riley Gaines on X Friday: "How could anyone listen to the compassion, strength, and bravery Erika Kirk spoke with and still celebrate the cold-blooded murder of Charlie?"
Republican Senator Rick Scott of Florida: "The bravery, love, and faith shown by Erika Kirk tonight was extraordinary. Continue to lift her up in prayer. While we mourn the tragic loss of Charlie, we stand with Erika, the Kirk family, and the Turning Point team in fighting every day to carry forward Charlie's legacy."
What Happens Next
Legal proceedings are expected to move forward now that a suspect is in custody in connection with Kirk's killing.
Update 9/12/25, 10:08 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
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