Erika Kirk reveals words exchanged with JD Vance during viral onstage hug

Erika Kirk detailed her October hug with JD Vance, describing it as her usual way of expressing affection

Erika Kirk has addressed the attention surrounding her recent hug with Vice President JD Vance, describing it as a natural expression of her affection. The incident occurred on October 29 during a Turning Point USA event, just seven weeks after the death of her husband, Charlie Kirk.

Erika, 37, who assumed the role of TPUSA CEO, paid tribute to her late husband before introducing Vance to the stage. She told the audience, “No one will ever replace my husband. But I do see some similarities of my husband in JD— in Vice President JD Vance. I do. And that's why I am so blessed to be able to introduce him tonight.”

During the onstage greeting, the two embraced tightly. Erika placed her hand on the back of Vance’s head while he briefly rested his hands on her waist. The moment was widely discussed on social media, with some users questioning whether the gesture was appropriate given Erika’s recent loss.

Speaking on Megyn Kelly’s programme on November 22, Erika explained her perspective. “My love language is touch,” she said. “They just played the emotional video. I'm walking over, [JD] is walking over. I'm starting to cry. He says, 'I'm so proud of you.' And I say, 'God bless you,' and I touch the back of his head. Anyone whom I have hugged… I always say, 'God bless you.'”

Kelly responded with humour, noting the reactions online. Erika added, “I feel like I wouldn't get as much hate if I did that!”

Erika later demonstrated the same greeting at the swearing-in of Sergio Gor as U.S. Ambassador to India on November 10. Gor had been close to Charlie Kirk and worked with him during the White House transition team following Donald Trump’s second inauguration.

JD Vance’s wife, Usha Vance, has remained largely private but was recently seen without her wedding ring during an official visit, sparking some speculation about the couple. A spokesperson clarified that Usha “forgets her ring sometimes” while caring for their three children.