Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, has spent much of her adult life in the spotlight—as Miss Arizona USA, a ministry leader, and entrepreneur, and most recently as a wife and mother sharing her husband’s outspoken Christian beliefs. Their love story, rooted in prayer and purpose, influenced their marriage and the movement he established, which she now continues to champion following his passing.

Shortly before her life took an unexpected turn, Erika Kirk shared a Bible verse, Psalm 46:1, stating: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” 

A baptized Catholic and graduate of Notre Dame Preparatory High School in Scottsdale, Arizona, Erika Kirk currently hosts the “Midweek Rise Up” podcast. It is a devotional series released every Wednesday, complemented by Monday Meditations, designed “to provide you that deep breath of, ‘God’s got this.’” 

According to her website, each episode “is intentionally and prayerfully crafted with words of encouragement to push you, Biblical leadership to challenge you, and God-breathed Scripture to posture your heart for the best that’s yet to come.”

Despite her achievements in faith, fashion, and pageantry, Erika prioritized her roles as a wife and mother.

“Above all, Erika cherishes her role as the wife of Charlie Kirk and the mother of their precious son and daughter,” reads her website biography. “As she continues to grow in her ministry, leadership, and entrepreneurial pursuits, Erika remains committed to inspiring others to live with purpose, rooted in faith and driven by the love of Christ in every aspect of life.”

Erika Kirk spoke for the first time since the assassination of her husband, Charlie Kirk, at Turning Point USA on Sept. 12, 2025. (Courtesy: Turning Point USA)

On Friday, Erika broke her silence and gave a moving statement on camera while standing next to the empty chair in which Charlie recorded his podcast.

“Two days ago, my husband, Charlie, went to see the face of his savior and his God,” she said through tears. “And one of the final conversations that he had on this earth, my husband witnessed for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Now and for all eternity he will stand at his Savior’s side wearing the glorious crown of a martyr.”

She added that Charlie’s favorite Bible verse was Ephesians 5:25, which says: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

In her message to America, Erika made it clear that the movement her husband started would not die with him. She announced that Turning Point USA would continue its campus tour and would hold its America Fest, which is scheduled to take place in Phoenix, Ariz., in December.

Charlie Kirk, who was killed during an event at Utah Valley university on Wednesday, is survived by his wife and their two young children, whose names have not been made public.