Erika Kirk Named CEO of Turning Point USA Following Husband Charlie Kirk's Death

Erika Kirk Assumes Leadership of Turning Point USA

Erika Kirk, the widow of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) founder Charlie Kirk, has been unanimously appointed as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board. The announcement, made on Thursday, September 18 or 19, 2025, comes in the wake of Charlie Kirk's death on September 10, 2025, when he was fatally shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.

According to statements from TPUSA, Charlie Kirk had previously expressed to multiple executives his desire for his wife to lead the organization in the event of his death. This transition marks a significant moment for the conservative youth movement, which has vowed to continue its mission under new leadership.

Background of the New CEO

Born Erika Lane Frantzve on November 20, 1988, Erika Kirk brings a diverse background to her new role. Raised in a Catholic family in Scottsdale, Arizona, she pursued higher education, earning a degree in political science and international relations from Arizona State University. She later obtained a Juris Master in American Legal Studies from Liberty University and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Christian leadership or Biblical studies from the same institution.

Before her marriage to Charlie Kirk in May 2021, Erika Kirk was active in various fields:

• She played collegiate basketball for Regis University.
• She won the title of Miss Arizona USA in 2012.
• She worked as an actor and model.
• She founded the non-profit organization 'Everyday Heroes Like You'.
• She hosts the 'Midweek Rise Up' podcast and is the CEO of the faith-based fashion brand 'Proclaim Streetwear'.

Erika Kirk has publicly advocated for traditional views on gender and marriage, encouraging women to prioritize family over career.

Turning Point USA's Mission and Future

Turning Point USA, co-founded by Charlie Kirk in 2012, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting conservative politics on high school and college campuses across the United States. Its stated mission is to 'identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government'. The organization boasts a presence on over 3,500 campuses and is recognized as a significant force in conservative youth activism.

Following Charlie Kirk's death, TPUSA has reportedly experienced a surge in new chapter requests, indicating a renewed engagement from its base. The organization's board members have expressed their commitment to carrying on Charlie Kirk's vision and expanding the movement.

Public Response and Memorial

The appointment of Erika Kirk and the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk's death have drawn significant public attention. A public memorial service for Charlie Kirk was held on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with thousands in attendance, including prominent political figures. During the service, Erika Kirk delivered an emotional address, stating her forgiveness for the man accused of her husband's murder.