"We will help my husband's friend, JD Vance, be elected the 48th president as resoundingly as possible in 2028," Erika Kirk stated, delivering the opening remarks at the annual AmericaFest conference hosted by the conservative organization Turning Point USA at the Phoenix Convention Center in Arizona on 18/12.

Overwhelming applause greeted Kirk's concluding remarks, overshadowing her final words.

Erika Kirk speaks at the annual AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona on 18/12. Photo: AP

Vance is widely considered a leading candidate for the Republican Party to succeed President Donald Trump, though he has not yet expressed an intention to run. Many anticipate he will make a decision following the 2026 midterm congressional elections.

An endorsement from Turning Point USA, one of the most influential conservative organizations, particularly among young activists and MAGA movement voters, could provide a significant boost for Vice President Vance should he run for the White House in three years.

Kirk, who succeeded her late husband as leader of Turning Point USA, previously indicated that the endorsement effort for Vance "is underway".

Speaking at AmericaFest, she also emphasized the importance of helping Republicans maintain majorities in the House and Senate in next year's midterm elections.

"We are building a red wall. We will ensure that President Trump receives congressional support throughout his current four-year term," she affirmed.

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative activist, was shot dead by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson at a Turning Point USA event in Utah on 10/9. Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA and was a key ally of President Trump.

Vance, who shared a close relationship with Kirk, is expected to speak at the AmericaFest conference's closing on 21/12.

By Huyen Le (Based on reports from NBC News, CBS News)