On the opening night of the annual conference hosted by Turning Point USA, Erika Kirk, the widow of the organization's founder Charlie Kirk, expressed her endorsement for a potential presidential bid from Vice President JD Vance. This notable statement was made to a cheering crowd, where Kirk emphasized Turning Point's commitment to maintaining a Republican majority in Congress for the upcoming year. She declared, "We are going to get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected for 48 in the most resounding way possible," referring to Vance potentially becoming the 48th president of the United States after Donald Trump.

Erika Kirk's endorsement represents a significant moment as it marks the most direct backing from a key figure in the conservative movement regarding Vance's potential candidacy. Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk in September 2025, Erika Kirk has been positioned as a steward of her late husband’s legacy. Charlie Kirk had established himself as a pivotal figure in the conservative community, playing a vital role in uniting various factions within the movement.

Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to speak at the Turning Point USA conference on Sunday, marking the last day of the event. The annual conference has maintained the vibrant energy typical of Turning Point USA gatherings, though it has not been without its challenges. The event has been accompanied by reports of intense infighting among conservative commentators and former allies, many of whom have turned on one another following Charlie Kirk's untimely death.

The internal conflicts within the organization highlight the ongoing struggles within the conservative movement, making the upcoming presidential landscape more complex. As these factions grapple with their alliances and allegiances, Erika Kirk's endorsement of JD Vance adds a layer of significance to his potential campaign, positioning him as a candidate with a strong backing from a family that is deeply connected to the conservative cause.

With the political environment in flux and the Republican Party working to solidify its foothold, Vance’s appearance at the conference is anticipated to draw significant attention. His relationships within the party, coupled with the fires of endorsement from influential figures like Erika Kirk, may play a pivotal role in shaping his bid for the presidency.