Erika Kirk appointed to late-husband Charlie Kirk's spot on Air Force Academy board

President Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk to the Air Force Academy board of visitors, filling the role that was left vacant after the assassination last year of her husband, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

It was not immediately clear when Erika Kirk was appointed to the 16-member board because the president and the academy's board did not announce it, but her name is listed as one of the members on the school's website.

“Charlie Kirk served proudly on the Board, inspiring not only the next generation of servicemembers, but millions around the world with his bold Christian faith, defense of the truth, and deep love of country,” White House spokesperson Olivia Wales told The Hill. “Erika Kirk will continue his legacy, and will be a fearless advocate for the most elite air power force in the history of the world whose warriors keep our Nation safe, strong, and free.” 

Charlie Kirk was appointed to the board in March 2025 and attended one meeting in August before his assassination in September, where he questioned construction delays at the military academy and pushed the school to emphasize what makes America great, claiming it was “imperative that these cadets know that we are the greatest nation ever.”

The move also comes after Erika Kirk became CEO of Turning Point USA following Charlie Kirk's death.