Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, delivered her first public remarks Friday, offering gratitude to law enforcement and political leaders while paying a deeply personal tribute to her slain husband.
Standing at a podium adorned with a portrait of her late husband, Erika Kirk praised local, state and federal authorities for swiftly capturing the suspect in Kirk’s killing during an event at Utah Valley University earlier this week. “They worked tirelessly to capture my husband’s assassin so that he can be brought to justice,” she said.
MRS. ERIKA KIRK, CHARLIE KIRK’S WIFE, ADDRESSES THE NATION
“I want to thank the millions of people who have shown their love for Charlie here in Phoenix, across America, and worldwide.”@MrsErikaKirk pic.twitter.com/wP5LalnDSO— Real America’s Voice (RAV) (@RealAmVoice) September 13, 2025
Her voice breaking, she continued: “My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children. May Charlie be received into the merciful arms of Jesus, our loving Savior.”
Erika Kirk also thanked President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Second Lady Usha Vance, for their support since the shooting. “You guys honored my husband so well, bringing him home. You both are tremendous,” she told the vice president and his wife, calling them “dear friends” of her husband.
She addressed Trump directly, saying, “My husband loved you and he knew that you loved him too. He did. Your friendship was amazing. You supported him so well, as did he for you.”
Reflecting on her husband’s faith and legacy, Erika Kirk described him as a man who embraced life with passion and conviction. “Charlie always said that when he was gone, he wanted to be remembered for his courage and for his faith,” she said. “He loved his life. He loved America. He loved nature, which helped him always bring him closer to God. He loved the Chicago Cubs and, my goodness, did he love the Oregon Ducks.”
But, she added, family remained at the heart of everything he did. “Most of all, Charlie loved his children, and he loved me with all of his heart, and I knew that every day.”
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