In a significant move within conservative political circles, Erika Kirk, a prominent figure with the youth organization Turning Point USA, has thrown her support behind a potential 2028 presidential campaign by current U.S. Vice President JD Vance. The endorsement came during a major gathering of conservative activists.
Key Endorsement at AmericaFest
Kirk made her position clear while speaking at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest 2025 event in Phoenix, Arizona. The event, held on December 18, 2025, draws thousands of young conservatives annually. Her public backing of Vance, who served as a U.S. Senator from Ohio before becoming Vice President, is seen as an early indicator of the political alignments taking shape for the next presidential election cycle.
The endorsement is particularly notable given Kirk's influential role following the passing of her husband, Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. She now helps lead the organization, which has become a powerful force in mobilizing young conservative voters across the United States.
The Political Landscape for 2028
While the next U.S. presidential election is still years away, political maneuvering and early endorsements are already beginning. Vice President Vance, known for his populist conservative views and as a bestselling author, is widely speculated to be a leading contender for the Republican nomination in 2028.
Support from a figure like Erika Kirk and the network of Turning Point USA provides a crucial base of energy and grassroots organization. It signals to other donors and activists where a segment of the party's future-oriented wing may be placing its early bets.
Implications for Conservative Movements
This early endorsement highlights the continuing evolution of the conservative movement in America. Turning Point USA, focused on students and young adults, represents a newer generation of political activism. Their alignment with a figure like JD Vance suggests a blending of traditional Republican politics with the more populist, America First ideology that has gained prominence in recent years.
The public show of support at a high-profile event like AmericaFest ensures the message reaches an audience of engaged conservatives who are likely to be influential in primary processes. It marks one of the first major, organized conservative endorsements for the 2028 race, setting the stage for the political battles to come.
