Erika Kirk says TPUSA is ‘very direct about’ supporting JD Vance for 2028 presidential run

GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA: At Megyn Kelly’s live show in Glendale, Erika Kirk told the conservative commentator that Turning Point supports Vice President JD Vance in the 2028 presidential race. 

She also shared that her husband, Charlie, supports Vance and was very “direct” about his 2028 presidential run.

Erika reflected on a hug she shared with Vance at a joint TPUSA event, a moment that went viral. She called herself a “big hugger” and laughed about how it became a headline across the country. She added, “Whoever is hating on a hug needs a hug themselves."

Turning Point USA signals early backing for JD Vance

TPUSA CEO Erika Kirk made it clear that Turning Point is planning to back Vice President JD Vance if he runs for president in 2028. Speaking with Megyn Kelly, she stated that the organization’s support is intentional and forthcoming, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape.

“That was a thing that my husband was very direct about,” Erika Kirk said. “It was, interestingly enough, one of the last few conversations we had, was how intentional he was about supporting JD for ‘28.”

While the interview covered several topics, it was Kirk’s remarks about Vance, and the now-viral hug she shared with him at a TPUSA event, that drew the most attention. Describing herself as a “big hugger,” she recounted the emotional moment that became a major talking point online. 

“Those who know me know I’m someone who loves giving hugs. If someone needs one, I’ll give it anytime,” Kirk explained. “During that moment with JD, I was starting to cry, he said he was proud of me, and I touched his back and said, ‘God bless you.’ That’s just how I am. If anyone wants to take that out of context, that’s on them.”

She added humorously about the reactions online, “Some people acted like I did something wrong, but seriously, it was just a hug. I try to bring that same warmth wherever I go. It’s just me, and it’s always meant to be genuine.”

JD Vance hints at 2028 presidential run while focusing on current role

JD Vance addressed speculation about a possible 2028 presidential bid during a new interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity. As conversations about a post-Trump Republican Party intensify, attention has shifted to the early landscape of the next election cycle.

“I would say that I've thought about what that moment might look like after the midterm elections,” Vance said. “But I also, whenever I think about that, I try to put it out of my head and remind myself the American people elected me to do a job right now, and my job is to do it.”

"So, we're gonna win the midterms, we're gonna do everything that we can to win the midterms, and then after that, I'm gonna sit down with the president of the United States and talk to him about it," Vance said. "But let's focus on the now," Vance added.