On September 18, Turning Point USA made a significant announcement: Erika Kirk, the widow of its esteemed co-founder Charlie Kirk, has been unanimously elected as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board. The board revealed that Charlie Kirk had privately wished for his wife to succeed him should he ever be unable to continue his work, stating that he had “prepared all of us for a moment like this.”
Who is Erika Kirk?
Erika Frantzve, born and raised in Arizona, first gained public attention when she was crowned Miss Arizona USA in 2012. Beyond her pageant success, she was also a dedicated collegiate basketball player for the women’s team at Regis University in Colorado.
Erika’s academic journey saw her pursue a double major in Political Science and International Relations at Arizona State University, followed by a Juris Master’s degree in American Legal Studies from Liberty University. In 2022, she earned a doctorate in Biblical Studies. Her professional and ministry experiences are equally diverse, encompassing work in New York’s real estate sector and the development of international projects, such as an orphan initiative in Constanța, Romania.
Beyond her academic and athletic pursuits, Erika Kirk established a strong public presence through various faith-driven projects and media endeavors. In 2006, she founded “Everyday Heroes Like You,” a non-profit dedicated to spotlighting community service. She also developed “BIBLEin365,” a devotional program promoting daily scripture engagement, and hosted the podcast “Midweek Rise Up,” where she blended biblical teachings with principles of leadership and personal growth. More recently, she launched Proclaim, a faith-based clothing line produced in the United States. Her official biography characterizes her as a “social entrepreneur and passionate ministry leader,” deeply committed to weaving faith into daily life.
Erika married Charlie Kirk in Arizona in May 2021. Their union garnered significant attention within conservative political spheres, as both were prominent figures who seamlessly integrated political activism with their devout expressions of faith. Together, they welcomed two children into their family: a daughter in 2022 and a son in 2024.
What is Turning Point USA?
Turning Point USA is a prominent conservative youth organization in the U.S., co-founded by Charlie Kirk in 2012. It quickly evolved into one of America’s most influential right-wing campus groups, establishing chapters across hundreds of colleges and high schools nationwide. The organization’s stated mission is to foster conservative principles among students, and it has successfully drawn millions of followers through dynamic campus events, extensive social media engagement, and immersive summer training programs.
Why was she chosen as CEO of Turning Point USA and what does that role entail?
On September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk tragically died after being shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University.
Just eight days later, on September 18, TPUSA’s board unanimously voted Erika Kirk as the new CEO and Chair. Their decision honored Charlie Kirk’s previously stated desire for his wife to carry on his work should he be unable to. In their official announcement, the board emphasized that Erika’s leadership would ensure the organization’s mission continues, particularly as they navigate potential challenges aimed at undermining or dismantling the group’s enduring legacy.