WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to serve on the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, a federal advisory body that oversees the academy.

🚨 WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to serve on the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, a federal advisory body that oversees the academy.

Erika Kirk will help serve on the 16-member Board of Visitors, which reviews major aspects of the Air Force Academy, including:
Cadet morale and discipline
Academic programs and curriculum
Facilities and equipment
Overall administration of the academy

The board provides recommendations and reports to the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Air Force, and Congress about how the academy operates.

Replacing her late husband
The appointment also means Erika Kirk is taking the same seat previously held by her husband.
Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was appointed to the board in March 2025.

He attended only one board meeting before he was assassinated in September 2025.

Trump administration officials said Erika Kirk would continue her husband’s legacy, describing her as someone who supports the U.S. military and patriotic values.

Who Erika Kirk is
Erika Kirk is an American businesswoman, podcaster, and conservative activist. She became CEO and chair of Turning Point USA after her husband’s death.

She previously:
Won Miss Arizona USA in 2012
Hosted a political podcast called Midweek Rise Up
Founded charity and Christian initiatives such as Everyday Heroes Like You and BIBLEin365.

Reactions and controversy
The appointment has sparked debate online and in political circles.
Supporters say it honors Charlie Kirk’s influence in conservative youth politics.
Critics question whether Erika Kirk has military or defense experience, noting that she has not served in the armed forces.