Erika Kirk reveals why she’s been smiling so much since the killing of her husband

It’s been over a month since conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, 31, was tragically shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University.

The progressive force behind Turning Point USA — one of the largest student-focused political groups in the country — was roughly 20 minutes into his speech when a gunshot struck him in the neck. Eyewitnesses recalled seeing him clutch his neck before collapsing. He was rushed to a hospital, but nothing could be done to save his life.

Among the 3000 people in attendance were Kirk’s wife, Erika, and their two young children.

Shortly after Charlie Kirk’s passing, Erika addressed the nation. She thanked the emergency services who had done everything to save her husband. Erika then extended her gratitude to Vice President JD Vance and his wife for bringing Charlie’s coffin home. She also thanked President Donald Trump, whom Charlie Kirk supported and admired.

In a separate address, Erika announced she would be taking the position of CEO of her late husband’s non-profit organization. “The Charlie Kirk Show is not going anywhere,” Erika Kirk said. “My husband’s voice will live on. The show will go on. We will have rotating hosts, rotating casts, rotating people coming on. It is going to be continually the north star of the conservative movement, of the voice of the youth, of the voice of the base, and that will not end.”

While many grieved Charlie’s death alongside his widow, Erika Kirk has recently become a hot topic, largely due to her smiling demeanor whenever she appears in public.

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Conservative commentator Candace Owens has been among those who questioned Erika’s behavior.

Owens criticized Erika Kirk for focusing on photoshoots shortly after her husband died instead of demanding public accountability for his death.

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