Tim Dillon questions Erika Kirk backing JD Vance just months after husband’s killing

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: Comedian and podcaster Tim Dillon criticized Erika Kirk's decision to publicly endorse Vice President JD Vance for president just months after the death of her husband, conservative activist and former CEO of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk.

Dillon made the comments during the opening segment of his Saturday, December 20, podcast, describing the endorsement as "weird and uncomfortable."

Kirk announced her support for Vance during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest in Phoenix on Friday night. The endorsement comes amid growing discussion within conservative circles about the 2028 presidential race. 

Tim Dillon criticizes timing of Erika Kirk at TPUSA event

Dillon focused his remarks on the timing and presentation of Erika Kirk's appearance at the high-profile conservative gathering, which included fireworks and stage effects.

During the event, Kirk told attendees, “We are going to get my husband’s friend JD Vance elected for 48 in the most resounding way possible,” referring to Vance's potential bid to become the 48th president following Donald Trump. 

Opening his podcast, Dillon said that the moment struck him as unsettling, given the proximity to Charlie Kirk's death, which occurred three months ago. 

"Everything about this is weird and uncomfortable," Dillon said. "I’m saying the guy got shot three months ago, and she walks out to a pyrotechnic display, and then she goes, 'We’re going to elect JD Vance.' It’s weird that that’s where her head is at. It’s difficult for many people to relate to." 

He continued by comparing the presentation to the kind of spectacle conservatives often criticize in entertainment culture.

"It’s not relatable for people that talked about how Hollywood isn’t relatable and how Hollywood is out of touch - this looks a lot like Hollywood to most people," Dillon said. 

Broader criticism of early 2028 focus and party infighting 

Beyond the endorsement itself, Dillon questioned the broader push toward discussing the 2028 presidential election so soon after the 2024 cycle.

He described it as premature and disconnected from voters' immediate concerns. 

He also argued that the spectacle surrounding the TPUSA event and ongoing public disputes among conservative figures could benefit political opponents. 

“The far-left in this country… again, a lot of their policies, I wouldn’t love,” Dillon said. “But they seem mature and dignified, truly. Because this has become like a weird, quasi-religious undertaking that involves glittering sequined gowns and appeals for more money.”