The death of Charlie Kirk on 10/9 created a significant power vacuum at Turning Point USA (TPUSA). Kirk founded the conservative youth organization in 2012, and it has since grown to over 3,500 chapters in educational institutions across the US, becoming one of the country's largest conservative movements. Known for his controversial stances on issues such as gun ownership, abortion rights, and transgender rights, Kirk had received numerous threats. It appears he had planned for the possibility of his death by designating his wife, Erika Kirk, as his successor.

On 18/9, TPUSA announced that its board of directors had unanimously chosen Erika Kirk as the new CEO and chairman of the board, fulfilling Kirk's previously expressed wishes. This transition propels Erika from the role of supportive spouse into the spotlight as the inheritor of her husband's political legacy.

"I think she’ll do everything she can to protect Charlie’s legacy," Alex Clark, host of TPUSA's Culture Apothecary podcast, told CNN. "The entire staff is also eager to see her leadership and guidance."

Erika Kirk speaks at a memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Glendale, Arizona on 21/9. Photo: AFP

Erika Kirk speaks at a memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Glendale, Arizona on 21/9. Photo: AFP

Born in November 1988 and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, Erika was raised by her mother after her parents divorced. She earned a degree in political science and international relations from Arizona State University, a law degree from Liberty University in 2017, and a doctorate in biblical studies in 2022.

Erika's background includes acting, modeling, and playing basketball in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). In 2012, she was crowned Miss Arizona. In her introductory video for the competition, she admitted to maturing later in some aspects of her life. "I played basketball since I was 5, a real tomboy, and didn't like wearing dresses," Erika shared. "I first wore high heels at 14, but by then I could already sink a perfect jump shot."

Caitlin Fitz-Maurice, a fellow contestant in Miss Arizona 2012, described Erika as "wise beyond her years." When Fitz-Maurice was disappointed about being the runner-up, Erika encouraged her to seek a "higher purpose."

According to her personal website, Erika owns Proclaim, a faith-based fashion brand, hosts the Midweek Rise Up podcast focusing on the Bible, and founded two non-profit organizations.

Erika first met Charlie Kirk, five years her junior, in 2018 when she applied for a job at the opening of TPUSA's Phoenix office. Kirk contacted her via Instagram, suggesting a meeting for an interview. Shortly after, when he visited New York City, where Erika lived, he invited her to dinner. "He chose a burger joint in Manhattan, and we had a lively conversation, interspersed with jokes about theology, philosophy, and politics," Erika recounted in a 2023 Instagram post. "At the end, he paused, looked into my eyes, and said, 'I want to date you.'"

Erika Frantzve crowned Miss Arizona in 2012. Photo: NY Post

Erika Frantzve crowned Miss Arizona in 2012. Photo: NY Post

They got engaged in 2020, married a year later, and have a son and a daughter. While occasionally sharing glimpses of their family life through interviews and social media posts, they have kept their children's names and images private.

Erika has often spoken about her personal ideals rooted in Christian values during public appearances with her husband. When discussing her role in their relationship, she has used the sometimes controversial term "submissive." "I enjoy submitting to Charlie because he’s a great leader. I enjoy him coming home and feeling completely loved and supported, so he can be recharged," Erika explained.

Kirk and Erika stated they modeled their marriage on biblical principles: Kirk provided financially, while Erika focused on raising their children and managing the household. At TPUSA's young women's leadership conference in 2024, Erika said that when she met Kirk, she felt "content and no longer concerned about her career."

After Kirk's passing, Erika shared a video of him telling their daughter about their first meeting at the burger restaurant. "Dad was asking questions about philosophy, religion, Jesus. And then Dad realized Mom was beautiful, smart, classy, and a Christian, so Dad said, 'Forget this interview, I want to date you,'” Kirk said in the video.

Charlie Kirk with his wife Erika at a Turning Point USA event in Washington, D.C. on 19/1. Photo: AFP

Charlie Kirk with his wife Erika at a Turning Point USA event in Washington, D.C. on 19/1. Photo: AFP

Lobbyist Anna Scott Marsh, who knew Kirk for 10 years, first met Erika in 2021 when she was helping her husband with fundraising in North Carolina. "She's a lot like Charlie: kind, appreciative of other people's time, and incredibly intelligent. When you talk to either of them, you feel like the most important person in the room," she recalled.

Marsh supports Erika succeeding Kirk, believing her leadership of TPUSA "will be a source of healing and inspiration for many Americans." Republican strategist Brian Darling predicts Kirk's legacy will continue through TPUSA's expansion, noting the organization has received thousands of requests for new chapters since his death.

Fitz-Maurice, the 2012 Miss Arizona runner-up, hopes Erika will emerge as a new political force. "I truly believe Erika will carry on Kirk's mission, and I have faith in her ability to do so. She possesses both strength and perseverance," Fitz-Maurice said. "Some believe Erika will run for president. I hope that becomes a reality."

Nhu Tam (According to NPR, CNN, Telegraph)