At a packed evening in Phoenix, the widow of the late Turning Point USA founder announced a formal endorsement for Vice President JD Vance.
The Endorsement Moment
During the opening address of Turning Point USA’s annual America Fest conference, Erika Kirk spoke to thousands of activists at the Phoenix Convention Center. She declared, “We are going to get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected” in 2028. The statement was met with enthusiastic cheers that drowned out the final words of her speech.
Turning Point USA’s Influence
Turning Point USA is known as one of the most influential conservative organizations in the United States, especially among young activists and MAGA voters. The organization’s backing could give Vance a significant boost if he chooses to run for president in the next three years.
Erika Kirk’s Prior Hints
Before the conference, Kirk had mentioned that an endorsement of Vance was “in the works.” At the event, she emphasized her support for the vice president and for the Republican Party’s efforts to maintain majorities in both houses of Congress in the next year’s midterm elections.
Building the Red Wall
Kirk stated, “We are building the red wall,” and added, “We’re going to make sure that President Trump has Congress for all four years” of his current term. These remarks align with the organization’s broader strategy of strengthening Republican control of Congress.
Vance’s Current Role and Future Plans
Vice President JD Vance has not yet announced his plans for the 2028 presidential election. The endorsement signals that he is a candidate under consideration by key conservative groups.
The America Fest Schedule
Vance is scheduled to speak on Sunday, the closing day of the America Fest conference. His appearance will follow the endorsement and is expected to further solidify his standing among conservative activists.
Honoring Charlie Kirk
In Glendale, Arizona, Vice President Vance honored Charlie Kirk during a memorial service. The service recognized Kirk’s contributions to conservative activism and his tragic death.
Legal Context of the Assassination
Charlie Kirk was assassinated at a Turning Point USA event in Utah on September 10. Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with state crimes, including aggravated murder, related to the incident. Robinson has not yet entered a plea. The Justice Department is considering whether to charge Robinson with a federal anti‑Christian hate crime.
Key Takeaways
- Erika Kirk formally endorsed JD Vance for the 2028 presidency during Turning Point USA’s America Fest.
- Turning Point USA’s endorsement could provide a major boost to Vance’s potential campaign.
- Vance is scheduled to speak at the conference’s closing day and has honored Charlie Kirk at a memorial service.
- The assassination of Charlie Kirk on September 10 led to charges against Tyler Robinson, with federal hate‑crime considerations underway.
The endorsement marks a significant moment for Turning Point USA and the broader conservative movement as it prepares for the 2028 election cycle.
