Erika Kirk Reflects on Grief and Resilience One Year After Charlie Kirk's Assassination
Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, has shared her reflections on the first year since her husband's assassination in a New York Times guest essay titled 'What I’ve learned about grief.' Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Erika Kirk, who assumed leadership of TPUSA, recounted the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, describing it as a 'fever dream.' She highlighted advice from second lady Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, who encouraged her to 'Just get through the next 15 minutes' during moments of overwhelming grief. Kirk detailed personal struggles, such as seeing her husband's belongings and navigating family milestones without him, but emphasized that Vance's advice helped her cope. She also discussed her faith, stating that despite the immense loss, she believes God is good and has witnessed positive outcomes from the tragedy. 
