Erika Kirk Speaks Out On Viral Hug With Jd Vance: 'An Expression Of Grief And Affection'

Erika Kirk Opens Up About Her Public Hug with JD Vance

Erika Kirk is setting the record straight about her onstage hug with Vice President JD Vance during a Turning Point USA event at the University of Mississippi's Pavilion at Ole Miss. This warm embrace, happening seven weeks after the passing of her husband, Charlie Kirk, stirred online chatter. Erika, the new CEO of TPUSA, spoke candidly to Megyn Kelly about this moment, emphasizing it as an expression of her grief and affection. "My love language is touch, if you will," Erika shared during a recent appearance on Megyn Kelly Live in Phoenix.

“My love language is touch, if you will,” Erika, 37, told Megyn Kelly during a recent appearance on Megyn Kelly Live in Phoenix. Reflecting on the moment, she offered a detailed “play-by-play” of what unfolded.

As Erika recounted, the hug happened just after an emotional tribute video played. "They just played the emotional video. I’m walking over, [JD] is walking over. I’m starting to cry," she recalled. "He says, ‘I’m so proud of you.’ And I say, ‘God bless you,’ and I touch the back of his head. Anyone whom I have hugged, that I have touched the back of your head when I hug you, I always say, ‘God bless you.’”

Reflecting on Personal Loss and Public Scrutiny

The moment was more than just a hug – it was a poignant expression of a widow's journey through loss and healing. Erika's heartfelt words to the audience, "No one will ever replace my husband," resonated deeply, as she noted some similarities between her late husband and JD Vance. Her openness touched many, but also drew a mix of reactions online.

Just a week later, Erika embraced U.S. Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, in a similar manner at his swearing-in at the Oval Office. Erika explains these gestures as deeply rooted in her personal loss and connection, dismissing any unwarranted controversy surrounding them.

New Beginnings at TPUSA

In her new role as CEO, Erika leads the organization her husband founded. Despite the scrutiny, she continues to honor Charlie's legacy through her work and personal authenticity. Her conversation with Kelly also ventured into deeply personal territory, revealing plans she and Charlie had for expanding their family. "We wanted to have four [children]," she shared, encouraging young couples not to delay family plans.

Erika's journey is one of resilience, courage, and honoring a legacy. "My husband will never be replaced," she reiterated, vowing to continue being true to herself and her mission despite any raised eyebrows. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of love and the importance of staying authentic in the face of public scrutiny.