In a surprising turn of events, Erika Kirk, the widow of the late Charlie Kirk, has announced a forthcoming private discussion with political commentator Candace Owens. This meeting, slated for Monday, December 15, 2025, represents a halt in the public discord that has enveloped the two conservative figures following the assassination of Charlie Kirk in September at a Turning Point USA event in Utah.
Erika Kirk took to social media to disclose the planned conversation, expressing a mutual agreement with Owens to suspend all public engagement, including livestreams and online posts, until after their face-to-face conversation concludes. Owens responded affirmatively, also via social media, indicating her anticipation for the discussion.
The backdrop to this meeting is a series of public disagreements that escalated after Owens directed multiple allegations toward Turning Point USA, the organization that Charlie Kirk founded. FBI Director Kash Patel has stated there is no evidence linking the organization or any foreign entities to the attack.
Charlie Kirk’s life was tragically cut short on September 10, while he was speaking at Utah Valley University. Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old, is currently facing murder charges after allegedly firing the fatal shots from a rooftop. Prosecutors have unveiled text messages where Robinson confessed to his roommate about planning the attack for a week, motivated by his disdain for Kirk’s rhetoric.
The controversy continued as Erika Kirk addressed conspiracy theories regarding her husband’s death during an appearance on Fox News. She promoted Charlie’s final book and criticized those profiting from speculation around his assassination, without specifically naming Owens. Owens, who separated from Turning Point USA in 2020 after internal disagreements, has since been vocal in her criticism, including drawing parallels between Erika Kirk's requests for privacy and the Duchess of Sussex’s controversies.
Owens’ podcast episodes on the subject have garnered substantial attention, with up to nine million views, making her show the number one ranked globally on multiple platforms. Her commentary has not only scrutinized Erika Kirk's actions but also delved into Charlie Kirk's past romantic life, sharing private text messages and insinuating remarks about his character.
Further, Owens has suggested military involvement in the assassination, hinting at undisclosed evidence linking the U.S. military and other international forces to the incident. These allegations have been met with public dispute from Blake Neff, producer of Kirk's show, who condemned the ongoing commentary.
The controversy reached the Trump administration after Owens called on donors to demand refunds from Turning Point USA, alleging financial mismanagement. However, the Treasury Department has relayed to Erika Kirk that the organization is not under investigation.
Despite the surrounding controversy, Owens’ podcast continues to thrive financially, with an annual revenue of approximately $10 million and the support of nearly 60 sponsors. Meanwhile, Erika Kirk has stepped into the role of chief executive at Turning Point USA, leading an organization with a significant national presence.
President Donald Trump, who paid tribute to Charlie Kirk at a memorial service attended by over 60,000 mourners, acknowledged the activist's role in rallying youth votes in the 2024 presidential election. He commended Erika Kirk for her strength and ability to provide solace to many during a profoundly difficult period.