'I will never let your legacy die': Erika Kirk’s emotional address after Charlie Kirk’s shooting

Erika Kirk delivers emotional message

Erika Kirk, wife of the late conservative speaker and MAGA activist Charlie Kirk, delivered her first public address on Friday, just days after her husband was fatally shot during a debate event at Utah Valley University (UVU).

In an emotional tribute, she thanked law enforcement, political leaders, and friends for their support, while reflecting on her husband’s legacy and the impact of his loss. Hours before the incident, she had shared a Bible verse about seeking strength during difficult times.

Speaking from the office where Charlie hosted his podcast, Erika Kirk vowed she “won’t let his legacy die.” She recalled his deep love for America, nature, and the Chicago Cubs, but said: “Most of all, Charlie loved his children, and he loved me with all of his heart.”

Mrs. Erika Kirk Addresses The Nation After Her Husband’s Assassination@TPUSA @MrsErikaKirk pic.twitter.com/55Gvxtbc7G

— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) September 13, 2025

Speaking from a podium adorned with her late husband’s portrait, Erika Kirk expressed gratitude to authorities for their swift action in capturing 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who was arrested after a three-day manhunt.

“They worked tirelessly to capture my husband’s assassin so that he could be brought to justice,” she said.

Turning emotional, she shared the personal toll the tragedy has taken on their family, recalling a moment with their daughter: “When I got home last night, my daughter Gigi ran into my arms. She said, ‘Mommy, I missed you. Where’s daddy?’”

Erika also issued a pointed message to those responsible for the killing: “You have no idea the fire that you have ignited within this wife. The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.”

She thanked Donald Trump, noting her husband’s admiration for the former president: “You supported him so well, as did he for you.”

Reflecting on a conversation with her daughter, she recounted telling the three-year-old: “Baby, daddy loves you so much. Don’t you worry. He’s on a work trip with Jesus so he can afford your blueberry budget.”

In a message directed to her late husband, Erika pledged: “I promise I will never let your legacy die. I will make your movement the biggest thing this nation has ever seen. In a world filled with chaos, doubt and uncertainty, my husband’s voice will remain.”

The White House also posted an emotional tribute on X, stating: “In loving memory of Charlie Kirk, a fearless patriot and a man of unwavering faith who dedicated his life to America.”

In loving memory of Charlie Kirk, a fearless patriot & man of unwavering faith who dedicated his life to America.

"It's bigger than you, I want you to remember that... It's bigger than me - you are here to make somebody else's life better, the pursuit of liberty & freedom."❤️ pic.twitter.com/3Xrf5dcFlP

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 12, 2025

Charlie Kirk, a key figure in rallying youth support for Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign, was fatally shot by a single round fired from a rooftop while he addressed a crowd of 3,000 at an outdoor campus event.